Ottawa, ON — Dane Lloyd, Conservative Shadow Minister for Emergency Preparedness, released the following statement to respond to international firefighter contracts coming to an end:

“In much of western Canada, the fire risk remains extreme, with active fires currently burning in BC, Northwest Territories, Yukon, and Alberta. Tens of thousands of Canadians have been evacuated from their homes as the worst fire season in modern Canadian history continues to take its toll.

“Recent news indicates that the heroic international firefighting brigades that have supported Canada throughout this fire season have not had their contracts extended or are being recalled home.  It is imperative that international assistance continues to reach these at-risk areas, especially as crews battle fatigue after what has already been a long and challenging season.

“Common Sense Conservatives are calling on Minister Harjit Sajjan to take immediate action to extend these expiring contracts and to negotiate with our allies to ensure we can continue to access the services and personnel needed to fight these fires.”