OTTAWA – May 16, 2011 - Today, the Honourable Vic Toews, Canada’s Minister of Public Safety, issued the following statement of support for the citizens of Slave Lake, Alberta, in the aftermath of wildfires sweeping the region:
“I wish to express my deepest concern for those families affected by the speed and severity of the terrible wildfires sweeping through the Slave Lake area. At this time of immense loss of homes and businesses, the resilience shown by Northern Albertans is as inspiring in its strength as the fires are horrific in their destruction.
The unpredictable events of the past 24 hours are unthinkable to Canadians watching and praying across the country. The federal Government Operations Centre continues to monitor the situation closely, and we stand ready to lend assistance to municipal and provincial emergency responders dealing with this situation.
At this time, RCMP detachments in the area are being bolstered with additional members to assist with evacuations and other emergency duties. At the request of the Province of Alberta, the Government of Canada will provide essential items such as generators, beds and blankets from the National Emergency Stockpile System.
We hope and pray for a speedy end to the wildfires and will work with the Province of Alberta to help those who have lost so much return to normal life.”
Information:
Media Relations
Public Safety Canada
613-991-0657
