A pork processing plant in central Alberta remains closed with no immediate plans for repairs or reopening following a fire on June 17. The fire has left a significant impact on the local community, as Sunterra Meats in Trochu, Alberta, is the largest employer in the town of approximately 1,000 residents, located about 90 miles northeast of Calgary.
Mayor Barry Kletke of Trochu reported that 155 employees have been laid off due to the incident. Glen Price, director of Sunterra Market in Trochu, informed CTV News that while the fire caused extensive damage to the facility, a portion of the building remained unaffected, and minimal product was lost. The company, founded by the Price family, is currently in discussions with their insurance carrier and has not yet established a timeline for reopening.
“Until we determine the rebuild requirements and what it will take, we really don’t know at this point,” Price stated.
Fortunately, the fire occurred at the end of the workday when the facility was empty, resulting in no injuries. The cause of the fire is not considered suspicious.
In response to the layoffs, the Trochu Town Council is actively assisting the displaced workers in finding new employment opportunities. They are also coordinating food bank donations, organizing volunteers, and planning fundraising events to support the affected families. Some of the workforce, including members from immigrant communities, reside outside of Trochu.
