COPE Ontario sends its dearest condolences to those affected by the fires in Northwestern Ontario.
There are currently more than 100 active wildfires burning and mandatory evacuation orders remain in effect for Collins, Armstrong, Whitesand, Lac des Mille Lacs, Lac La Croix, and Gull Bay. Many of our members in Locals 81, 96, 454 and 521 live in the nearby areas.
This is devastating. Fires are a part of a natural cycle, but the extreme temperatures and weather events that we are seeing across the country are signs of climate change in action. The effects already, and will continue to, disproportionately impact more vulnerable populations.
Across the rest of the province, dangerously low air quality poses another threat. Today, July 15th, Toronto ranks #1 on the most polluted global major city ranking.
We call on the provincial and federal government to acknowledge the reality of climate change and to treat these matters with the necessary urgency.
Just days ago, Doug Ford joined Danielle Smith in announcing a new pipeline from Alberta to Ontario. Days before that, Carney announced another pipeline from the Alberta tar sands to BC. Events like these wildfires will only get worse if our government continues to ignore this existential danger.
For those nearby Thunder Bay, donations can be sent to The Superior Inn Hotel & Conference Centre to support those displaced by the fires.
