Premier Pat Binns has been busy canvassing Prince Edward Island fire fighters who can possibly help British Columbia deal with the devastating forest fires currently sweeping parts of that province. The Premier is responding to a personal request from B.C.'s Premier Gordon Campbell for a continuation of the tremendous support Island fire fighters have already provided to that province.
"Fortunately, the situation in B.C. seems to be stabilizing, but the danger is far from over and Premier Campbell has sought our help to ensure that, should the call come, we are ready to send capable fire fighters," said Premier Binns. "Over the years, we have benefitted from the fire fighting capabilities of other provinces and now it is our turn to lend a hand. I am pleased to say that at least 12 Island fire fighters have indicated a willingness to go should they be required."
The Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre (CIFFC) in Winnipeg has not sent a formal request for more support from Prince Edward Island.
The Premier thanked MLA Norman MacPhee, staff from the Department of Agriculture and Forestry and the Fire Marshal's Office for preparing the contact lists and coordinating activities between PEI and CIFFC. He also congratulated the Island fire fighters from the Department of Agriculture and Forestry and Parks Canada who have been fighting the B.C. fires over the last few weeks and who will be returning to the Island this weekend.
The Premier is encouraging Island fire fighters who may not have been contacted, but who are interested in going to B.C., to contact the Department of Agriculture and Forestry at 902-368-6431 for more information.