The Irving family owns a significant portion of New Brunswick's economy through diverse business interests spanning oil refining, forestry, shipbuilding, transportation, and media. Irving Oil operates Canada's largest refinery in Saint John, while J.D. Irving Limited controls vast forest lands and sawmills. The family's ownership of major newspapers raises concerns about media independence in the province. Irving companies are major employers, significantly influencing provincial employment and economic conditions. The concentration of economic power in one family creates unique dynamics for municipal governments that may depend on Irving employment, contract with Irving companies, or regulate Irving-owned properties and facilities.