Believing the citizens of New Brunswick and visitors should have an opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the province, this successful businessman has sponsored several beautification programs, including Bouctouche Bay Dune, an eco-tourism site, the Bay of Fundy's Irving Nature Park and the restoration of the Loyalist Burial Ground, located in the heart of Saint John. A "lumberman" first and foremost, he has demonstrated his deep commitment to the conservation and regeneration of the forests through resource renewal and ongoing research into forest management.
Member of the Order of Canada
Awarded on: 2014-05-08
Invested on: 2015-05-08
For his transformative contributions as a corporate leader who has advanced economic development in rural and urban New Brunswick.
Jim Irving is one of New Brunswick’s outstanding business and community leaders. His visionary leadership of J. D. Irving, Limited has helped to strengthen the economy in the Maritimes by creating opportunities for sustainable employment. He has also supported local economies by helping to develop the province’s future leaders, by funding programs in business, the environment and forestry at the University of New Brunswick. His philanthropy has also supported various business, nature conservation, health care and educational organizations.