Mr. Speaker,
Today I would like to acknowledge our whole-of-government response to the Northwest Territories’ catastrophic wildfires.
We remained in frequent communication with the Government of the Northwest Territories leading up to, during, and after the wide-scale evacuations. I personally spoke with Premier Caroline Cochrane on numerous occasions. I also remained in communication with my legislative colleagues in the Kitikmeot region.
Our goal was to offer our support, while ensuring the safety of Nunavummiut in our care.
Mr. Speaker, as a pre-emptive measure, the departments of Health and Community and Government Services worked with Canadian North. We procured a charter flight to transfer all medical travellers and escorts from Yellowknife to Edmonton. All 85 medical travellers and escorts were accounted for and arrived safely in Edmonton. Patients in need of urgent care were prioritized.
We helped ensure those on duty travel were accounted for, as well as clients under the responsibility of Family Services and Justice.
Our government’s inter-departmental committee assessed ongoing repercussions and impacts as issues arose related to transportation and the supply chain to the Kitikmeot Region.
Mr. Speaker, we donated $250, 000 to the United Way Northwest Territories Emergency Response Fund to support residents impacted by wildfire. These funds went towards the work of organizations that were directly welcoming and helping the thousands of evacuees.
We felt, deeply, the tragedy of the wildfires experienced by our neighbours to the west, including relatives and loved ones. We continue to think of them as they resume, and for some rebuild, their lives after the wildfires.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.