Schreiner: We need a forest fire management plan now

June 5, 2026

QUEEN'S PARK — Mike Schreiner released the following statement in response to news that Mattagami First Nation was forced to evacuate to Barrie due to wildfires.

“I was saddened to hear that more than 160 residents of Mattagami First Nation were forced to evacuate their homes this week because of worsening wildfires. I am grateful to the first responders on the ground who are working to keep people safe and get control of the fires.

The Ford government needs to come through with a forest fire management plan to ensure communities feel safe in the face of dangerous weather and hazards.

Every year, climate change makes Ontario’s wildfire season worse. But the Premier has left communities woefully unprepared by failing to provide proper funding year after year.It’s time for this government to properly fund a forest fire management and wildfire prevention program so we can proactively respond to the worsening impacts of climate change and invest in hiring more firefighters with fair pay and proper equipment to protect them from hazards while they keep our communities safe.”

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