Manitoba premier hints at using emergency powers to open up hotel rooms for wildfire evacuees

Manitoba’s Premier, Wab Kinew, has expressed his government’s willingness to utilize emergency powers to secure hotel rooms for those affected by the ongoing wildfires in the province’s north. Despite thousands of rooms being made available for the 21,000 evacuees, there are still families sleeping on cots, prompting Kinew to urge hotel operators to voluntarily offer up their rooms for those in need.

Kinew, who recently visited the front lines of the wildfires, emphasized the importance of providing proper accommodation for evacuees. He highlighted the distressing sight of families, including children, sleeping on cots in a hockey rink and called for more hotel rooms in Thompson and other areas of the province to be opened up for evacuees.

The Premier’s remarks came after Pimicikamak Cree Nation Chief David Monias sent a letter urging the government to take emergency measures to free up hotel rooms. Kinew stated that while he hasn’t received any feedback from hotels declining to host evacuees, there is data indicating that more rooms could be made available.

During his tour of the wildfire-affected areas, Kinew visited Bakers Narrows and Flin Flon, where thousands have been displaced from their homes. He commended the efforts of firefighters from various backgrounds, including volunteers and First Nations firefighters, for their collaborative work in containing the fires threatening these communities.

Despite the challenges posed by the wildfires, Kinew expressed gratitude towards the firefighters and volunteers who have dedicated their time and efforts to protect the affected areas. He underscored the importance of cooperation and unity in facing the escalating wildfire crisis in Manitoba.

For the latest information on the wildfires and assistance for evacuees, resources such as Manitoba 211 can provide support. Kinew emphasized the need for continued support and collaboration to address the ongoing challenges posed by the wildfires in the province.