Official report or statement from the Commons environment committee

MPs to Investigate Parks Canada's Handling of July 24 Jasper Fire That Destroyed 358 Buildings

Sep 25, 2024, 09:46 PM

Members of Parliament have unanimously voted to initiate an investigation into Parks Canada's management of the Jasper fire, which destroyed 358 buildings and a third of the town. The investigation comes amid allegations that Parks Canada mishandled forest management and subsequently blamed the destructive blaze on climate change. Records reveal that Parks Canada managers had significant concerns regarding forest management, and emails from Minister Steven Guilbeault's department indicate discussions to cancel planned prescribed burns in Western Canada months before the July 24 wildfire. Guilbeault, who initially attributed the fire to climate change, defended Parks Canada's actions, stating that the agency implemented their 'best practices' at Jasper National Park. The Commons environment committee will oversee the proceedings, and it was noted that the Liberal Government had been warned since 2017 about the potential for a catastrophic fire.