FOG BLOG SAINT JOHN LOG: CITY SHUTS DOWN AIM RECYCLING PLANT PENDING REVIEW OF FIRE!

UPDATED: Province shuts down Saint John, N.B. recycling facility for full investigation and review

American Iron & Metal's operations in the port are on hold; City council wants them gone for good SAINT JOHN, N.B. — The New Brunswick government, alongside the Saint John Port Authority, will be forming a task force to investigate the scrap metal fire which broke out at the American Iron and Metal (AIM) facility in Saint John on Sept. 14.

In a meeting held Sept. 18, the province opted to suspend all AIM operations until the investigation is complete.

The authority has also chosen to close off the terminal while the task force assesses all events leading up to and during the blaze. Port Saint John will also be investigating AIM's compliance with the terms and conditions of the company's lease.

No injuries were reported during the fire, though it was the latest incident at the site, following recent explosions and two workplace deaths.

“First and foremost, community safety is paramount to us, as well as being a good neighbour to the people of Saint John,” said Saint John Port Authority CEO Craig Bell Estabrooks. “Since signing the lease with the operator of this site in 2011, many things have changed. Port Saint John never envisioned the series of explosions, fires, accidents and tragic deaths that have occurred. We are steadfast in our commitment to the health and safety of our community.”

Meanwhile, Saint John city voted Monday night in favour of a motion to scrap the scrapyard entirely.

Councillor Greg Norton tabled the motion that called on the province to "shut down AIM for good and never allow an organization like this operate on our waterfront or in our city again."