Katrine Conroy, Minister of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development, has released the following statement regarding the deployment of BC Wildfire Service personnel to Manitoba:

“British Columbia has a long history of offering a helping hand to other provinces and countries when they need assistance fighting wildfires. We are pleased to do that again now.

“On May 26, 2021, the BC Wildfire Service will send 41 firefighters and two support staff to Manitoba to help with firefighting efforts in that province.

“COVID-19 precautions will be taken to protect the health of everyone participating, both during their time in Manitoba and on their return to this province. Firefighters will remain within their own ‘bubble’ and conduct operations separately from Manitoba’s firefighters.

“The BC Wildfire Service recognizes the importance of sharing firefighting resources with other jurisdictions, and we welcome this opportunity to provide assistance to Manitoba.

“Given the current fire situation in British Columbia, we have sufficient resources in place to respond appropriately to wildfire activity here.

“I am proud of the professionalism exhibited daily by BC Wildfire Service staff. They are fully committed to keeping people and communities safe — whether it’s here at home or elsewhere around the world.”