Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with the Premier of the Northwest Territories, Caroline Cochrane.
Prime Minister Trudeau and Premier Cochrane discussed the current wildfire situation, including the territorial state of emergency, the threat to those in Yellowknife, and the Evacuation Orders in place for Fort Smith, Enterprise, Jean Marie River, Hay River, K’atl’odeeche First Nation, and the surrounding area. Currently, there are over 230 wildfires burning in the Northwest Territories, and thousands of residents have fled their homes while more than 20,000 square kilometres have burned.
The two leaders also discussed what the Government of Canada is doing to address the immediate needs of the Northwest Territories and reviewed areas of federal support, including the provision of Canadian Armed Forces personnel, aircraft, logistics, planning and coordination, and other resources.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed the Government of Canada’s commitment to provide ongoing assistance to the territory and affected communities.
Prime Minister Trudeau and Premier Cochrane agreed to remain in close contact as the wildfire situation in the Northwest Territories develops.