First Nations leaders seek inquiry after wildfires destroy communities
Chiefs call for government accountability following evacuations and widespread wildfire damage in northern Ontario
First Nations leaders in Canada are calling for a public inquiry and the resignation of senior Ontario officials following wildfires that destroyed two First Nations and forced evacuations in northwestern Ontario, according to reporting from ICT. Namaygoosisagagun First Nation Chief Helen Paavola said her community was left with “just ashes” after residents evacuated with little warning or support. Whitesand First Nation Chief Lawrence Wanakamik said his community also evacuated before receiving an official order as the fire approached.
The chiefs are asking Ontario Premier Doug Ford to launch a public inquiry into the emergency response and are seeking leadership changes within the Ministry of Natural Resources, according to the ICT reporting. They cited communication failures and inadequate evacuation support while thanking firefighters and other frontline responders. More than 850 wildfires are burning across Canada, with Ontario experiencing its worst wildfire season on record, and that Indigenous Services Canada estimates 80% of First Nations are located in areas at risk for wildfires.
- 1.Miles Morrisseau. Chiefs call for resignations and public inquiry following wildfire devastation. ICT.
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