Nation

Evacuees Demand Answers: Why Didn't Saskatchewan Call for Military Aid Sooner?

2025-06-10

Author: Noah

As devastating wildfires rage across Saskatchewan, the frustration among evacuees is palpable. Sherri Parr, whose husband is a volunteer firefighter in Creighton, voiced her bewilderment over the lack of military assistance from the Saskatchewan government: "Why didn’t they call for help weeks ago?"

Parr highlighted the extreme fatigue faced by local firefighters, who have been sleeping on dirt roads and concrete floors as they battle the blaze day and night. Joined by other evacuees, she expressed their collective concern regarding the government’s slow response to the crisis.

With over 15,000 residents forced to evacuate their homes due to more than two dozen wildfires, the community has rallied together, providing essential support to the firefighters. "Local businesses have been incredible, giving food and supplies to these heroes on the front lines," Parr noted, urging for more substantial government intervention.

Criticism is mounting against Premier Scott Moe’s administration for what many are calling a mismanagement of the wildfire response. The Opposition NDP is adamant that the military's aid, which could have been mobilized within 24 hours, should have been requested earlier.

Jordan McPhail, northern affairs critic, reiterated the dire need for military involvement, especially as communities continue to face devastating losses. The Emergency Management Services are currently stretched thin, and evacuees are demanding clear answers and actionable support from the province.

Many evacuees, like Rhonda Werbicki and Linda Lowe, are grappling with the heartbreak of losing their home. "How many more homes need to go up in flames before authorities step in with the help we need?" Lowe questioned, emphasizing the urgent need for aid.

Compounding the challenges, evacuees report bureaucratic hurdles hindering access to financial assistance for food and shelter. Moira Pinnell Davis, who fled Creighton almost two weeks ago, expressed her frustration: "People are struggling, and the government seems to be treating us like children without trust to manage our own expenses."

Despite the growing outcry, Premier Moe has remained firm against calling for military aid, stating the military lacks resources like water bombers. Instead, he has claimed to be in constant contact with federal authorities and other provinces, seeking help to combat these wildfires.

As evacuees call for immediate action and transparency, their resilience embodies the spirit of community in times of crisis. Will the government finally heed their pleas for support?