Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the Premier of the Northwest Territories, Caroline Cochrane, during his visit to Edmonton, Alberta.

Prime Minister Trudeau and Premier Cochrane discussed climate change and the ongoing wildfire situation in the Northwest Territories as well as what the Government of Canada is doing to help the people of the territory and all Canadians at this difficult time. The Prime Minister reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to help in battling the fires and supporting recovery and rebuilding efforts.

The two leaders discussed shared efforts to control the wildfires and support residents who have been displaced, including the deployment of Canadian Armed Forces personnel, the Canadian Coast Guard, and firefighters from across the country. They also talked about plans for the safe return of evacuated residents when possible.

The Prime Minister and the Premier spoke about the territory’s planned application under the federal Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements (DFAA) program, and about investments in infrastructure, telecommunications, and climate change mitigation and adaptation. They committed to working together to expedite Employment Insurance (EI) supports for people impacted.

The two leaders expressed their gratitude to first responders and the governments of Alberta and Manitoba for their support in sheltering evacuees.

Prime Minister Trudeau and Premier Cochrane agreed to remain in contact as the wildfire situation evolves.

Associated Links

• Wildfires
• Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks with Northwest Territories Premier Caroline Cochrane
• Prime Minister Justin Trudeau convenes the Incident Response Group to discuss wildfire situation across the country
• Government of Canada providing assistance to the Northwest Territories in response to wildfires
• The Government of Canada is supporting Canadians through the 2023 wildfire season
• Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements (DFAA)