Statement from Premier Bob McLeod on the Fort McMurray fires

Ministers' Statements and Speeches

YELLOWKNIFE (May 4, 2016) – NWT Premier Bob McLeod issued the following statement on the fires in Fort McMurray, Alberta today:

“On behalf of the Government and people of the Northwest Territories, I would like to offer my sympathies to residents of Fort McMurray and assure them that our government stands ready to offer whatever assistance it can as they deal with the effects of the wildfire currently burning in their community.

“As Northerners, we know all too well the potentially devastating impact of wildfires and the threat they can pose to communities and people. We also know firsthand the challenges involved in fighting wildland fires and the tremendous demands it places on emergency responders, fire crews, air crews and all others who take their stand on the frontlines on behalf of their fellow citizens. Our thoughts and prayers are with these brave men and women and with all those currently displaced by this fire.

“I have already passed on a message to Alberta Premier Rachel Notley to let her know that she and the residents of Fort McMurray are in the thoughts of our people and that we are prepared to offer whatever assistance we can in both the firefighting effort and the rebuilding and recovery to come. As we stand prepared for the upcoming NWT fire season, officials from the Government of the Northwest Territories have already reached out to fire response officials in Alberta to let them know that we are ready to come to their aid.

“Living, as we do, in remote areas far from major centres of population, Northerners know the importance of relying on each other in times of need. I want to assure the people of Fort McMurray that Albertans can depend on their friends and neighbours in the Northwest Territories to offer support and assistance in these trying times and the weeks to come.”