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He says Co-CEO Jim Irving will be leading operations for the New Brunswick company while his brother recovers.

Doucette did not specify where Irving is being treated and for what kind of cancer.

J.D. Irving employs about 20,000 people across various sectors, including agriculture, forestry and shipbuilding. 

After graduating with a business degree from Acadia University, Robert Irving began working for the company in 1977.

He received the Order of New Brunswick last year for his “profound and extensive community involvement, his generosity and his exceptional altruism towards the advancement of his community and province.”

He lives in Moncton, N.B., with his wife, Jill, and they have four adult children and two grandchildren.

The company said it would provide no further information and asked media outlets to respect the family’s privacy as Robert Irving focuses on his health.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 17, 2025.