ExxonMobil closure in Saint John throws 210 out of work

ExxonMobil is shutting down its Saint John office next year, putting210 people out of work.

The company plans to consolidateits New Brunswick operations in Moncton, spokesperson MerleMacIsaac told CBC News.

There will be some job openings for Saint John employeesat the business support centre in Moncton, where some jobs will be eliminated,said MacIsaac.

For those who are not able to move to Moncton the company will be providing severance packages and career support services," he said.

The Saint John office is slated to close in June.

Employees were notified on Wednesday afternoon, said MacIsaac.

"They asked a lot of questions but this is definitely, you know, it's difficult news, for Saint John especiallyand it's certainlynot a reflection on the quality of work of the people here," he said.

ExxonMobilopened its first office in New Brunswick in 1998 with 40 staff.

Itcurrently it has1,100 employeesin the province.

ExxonMobil isthe world's largest publicly traded international oil and gas company, according to the company's website.