Government of Nunavut and the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre formalize wildfire partnership

June 8, 2026 (Iqaluit, Nunavut) – The Government of Nunavut and the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre (CIFFC) have formalized Nunavut’s membership with CIFFC, enhancing the territory’s ability to prepare for, respond to, and recover from wildland fires.

As a CIFFC member, Nunavut is now connected to a coordinated network of federal, provincial, and territorial wildfire agencies working together on prevention, mitigation, preparedness, and response across Canada.

This membership provides Nunavut with access to mutual aid and resource sharing, operational expertise, training opportunities through ICS Canada, and prevention programming such as FireSmartTM Canada. Nunavut will also contribute to national wildfire planning and decision-making through participation in CIFFC governance bodies.

While wildland fires have historically been uncommon in Nunavut, changing environmental conditions are increasing the likelihood of fire in areas not previously affected. Recent events, including the 2023 wildfire near Bathurst Inlet that led to a state of emergency and evacuation, highlighted the importance of strengthening territorial readiness and response capacity.

“Joining the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre strengthens Nunavut’s ability to protect our communities as environmental conditions continue to change,” said Minister of Community Services Craig Simailak. “This partnership connects us to a national network of expertise and resources, while ensuring Nunavut has a voice in how wildfire response is coordinated across the country. It is an important step in building resilience and supporting the safety of Nunavummiut.”

“CIFFC is proud to welcome Nunavut as our newest member agency. Canadians are now represented coast-to-coast-coast, with all 10 provinces and three territories participating in wildland fire coordination. We look forward to learning, sharing and collaborating with each other. It takes a village to protect communities, and with Nunavut’s membership, Canada stands unified in its response to the increasing wildfire situation,” said Executive Director of the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre Kelsey Winter.

The Government of Nunavut continues to work with territorial, federal and community partners to strengthen emergency management, improve coordination and support community preparedness across Nunavut.
Contact

Ryleigh Hubert
Senior Crisis Communication Specialist
Department of Community Services
867-222-4262
RHubert@gov.nu.ca

Alexandria Jones
Communications and Engagement Advisor
Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre
media@ciffc.ca

ILR4