Ford Visits Thunder Bay Amid Wildfire Crisis and Funding Criticism
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The Premier met with evacuees and first responders as the province battles 191 active wildfires, while facing backlash over resource allocation.
Premier Doug Ford visited Thunder Bay on Saturday to meet with first responders and evacuees fleeing northern Ontario wildfires. According to Global News Toronto, Ford reported that approximately 300 people, including campers, were recently rescued via 40 missions.
Ford praised the efforts of the OPP, Thunder Bay police, firefighters, and paramedics. He noted that 191 active wildfires are currently burning in the province—an increase of seven from the previous day—with 73 classified as out of control and 91 being observed. To combat the fires, the province has deployed 155 crew members and 80 helicopters and water bombers. Ford urged evacuees to remain away from their homes and campsites to avoid hindering suppression efforts, promising that the province would provide food and hotel rooms.
Despite the visit, Global News Toronto reports that Ford has faced backlash regarding the level of funding and resources allocated for the wildfire response. In response to allegations from opposition members at Queen's Park that he is underspending, Ford stated he has spent $1.5 billion since taking office and is spending $650 million on water bombers and helicopters.
Natural Resources Minister Mike Harris described the season as "unprecedented" but has faced criticism over the handling of evacuations for the Namaygoosisagagun First Nation (Collins First Nation) and Whitesand First Nation, where residents fled without provincial help. Harris attributed the difficulty to fire moving at four to eight kilometers per hour, making it hard for provincial crews to assess the situation.
Other communities under evacuation orders include Gakijiwanong Anishinaabe Nation (Lac La Croix First Nation) and Armstrong. Additionally, the Canadian Armed Forces confirmed they are deploying four CC-130 Hercules aircraft to assist in evacuating Eabametoong First Nation (Fort Hope) following a request for federal aid from the province.