Statement from Minister Goodale regarding wildfires in British Columbia

Regina, July 9, 2017 – Today, the Honourable Ralph Goodale, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, made the following statement about the wildfire situation in British Columbia:

“My thoughts and prayers are with those displaced and affected by the wildfires in British Columbia.  I am heartened by the resilience, cooperation and courage demonstrated by the communities and emergency personnel facing this quickly evolving situation. 

On behalf of the Federal Government, the Minister of National Defence, the Honourable Harjit Sajjan, and I have accepted a request for federal assistance in dealing with the wildfire situation from my provincial counterpart, Todd Stone, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for Emergency Management BC.  

The Government Operations Centre is working diligently to coordinate the federal response to ensure that help is provided as soon as possible, and will continue to monitor and assess the wildfire situation as it evolves. Our officials are working closely with federal and provincial partners on planning the details of this assistance, including support from Canadian Armed Forces. 

I strongly encourage impacted residents to follow the directions and advice of their municipal law enforcement and first responders.

On behalf of all Canadians, I would like to thank local volunteers, the RCMP members and all of the first responders who continue to work night and day to keep everyone safe.”

Information:

Scott Bardsley
Office of the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness
613-998-5681

Media Relations
Public Safety Canada
(613) 991-0657