Ontario wildfires: Feds say province is “apparently capable” of handling current situation

“We’re on standby,” is what Defence Minister David McGuinty said Friday when asked what role the federal government will play in mitigating the wildfire situation in northwestern Ontario.

“Right now, the Province of Ontario and the Ministry of the Department of Emergency Preparedness are apparently capable to handle the situation, with some backstopping from defense,” McGuinty told reporters.

The minister continued: “If it gets to a level where they require a more direct and immediate support from the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), like always, the women and men of the Canadian Armed Forces will be there,” adding the CAF was yet to receive a “formal request” to step in.

McGuinty’s remarks come one day after the Ford government requested federal support and as Premier Doug Ford faces criticism for the province’s emergency preparedness capabilities.

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