Wildfires Force Renewed Evacuations Across Northern Manitoba First Nations

Press Release

Thompson, MB – Treaty Five Territory-– Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO) is urgently appealing for increased emergency support as wildfires again hit First Nations in northern Manitoba.

Several families from Tataskweyak Cree Nation learned today they had lost their homes to wildfires. The First Nation, which had seen improved conditions over the past week, was preparing to repatriate residents when this tragedy occurred.

And Marcel Colomb First Nation is evacuating again, after hundreds of people briefly returned home following May’s wildfire. Residents will relocate to Brandon until the fire threat is contained.

Medical evacuations are also underway in O-Pipon-Na-Piwin Cree Nation where as many as 150 priority medical patients will be moved to Winnipeg and Pimicikamak Cree Nation—recently repatriated—is moving up to 50 high-priority medical cases out today.

These repeated evacuations are deeply impactful. The physical displacement is difficult for families and physically demanding for Elders and children. The emotional trauma, stress and uncertainty are taking a toll.

MKO is coordinating with leadership and emergency services to ensure evacuees have access to health care and mental health supports.  MKO is also calling on provincial and federal governments to increase resources, aid in finding suitable accommodations for evacuees and commit to long-term recovery for the impacted First Nations.

In this ongoing emergency, we encourage all hotels to immediately contact the Red Cross and offer to welcome these new evacuees.

-30-

ILR5