Ottawa (Rajeev Sharma): As wildfires continue to spread across parts of Canada, particularly Manitoba and Ontario, Prime Minister Mark Carney has convened the Incident Response Group to coordinate the national emergency response and reinforce federal support.
The high-level meeting brought together senior ministers and federal officials to assess the situation and streamline efforts to manage the escalating wildfire threat. With thousands of residents already displaced and emergency operations underway, the federal government reaffirmed its full support for provincial and local authorities.
The Prime Minister emphasized ongoing coordination with Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew and First Nations leadership, who are playing a critical role in responding to the crisis. A key focus of the discussion was the Canadian Armed Forces’ airlift evacuations, which have helped relocate over 1,500 residents from Garden Hill First Nation to safety.
Carney reiterated that the federal Request for Assistance to Manitoba has been fully approved, ensuring resources for emergency evacuation, sheltering, and firefighting efforts. Currently, seven federal departments are involved in delivering aid and logistical support to affected communities.
Expressing deep gratitude, Carney praised the first responders, Armed Forces members, and local officials working tirelessly to safeguard lives and property. He also acknowledged the international assistance offered by the United States, Mexico, New Zealand, Costa Rica, and Australia in battling the devastating wildfires across Canada.
“Our government stands united with the people of Manitoba and all Canadians facing the effects of these wildfires,” Carney said. “We are committed to deploying all necessary federal resources—swiftly and effectively—to protect lives, support recovery, and manage this national emergency.”
With wildfire risks projected to remain high in the coming weeks, federal authorities have pledged continued vigilance and rapid response capability to deal with emerging threats across provinces.
