Statement from Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress, on the Wildfires Affecting Communities Across Canada

As wildfires continue to devastate communities across Canada—particularly in Manitoba—our hearts go out to everyone who has been affected. Families have been forced to flee their homes, communities are facing unimaginable loss, and far too many are living in uncertainty. 

We are thinking of you. We stand with you. 

We extend our deepest gratitude to the frontline workers—firefighters, emergency responders, public service workers, and so many others—who are working around the clock, often in dangerous conditions, to protect lives and communities. 

We owe them not just our thanks, but our full support—today and every day. 

That support must include fair treatment for all firefighters. Forest firefighters are often left out of the protections and benefits that others receive. They are not included in the Public Safety Occupation provisions of the federal Income Tax Act, which means they don’t get the same pension rights or recognition under the National Occupational Classification. 

Despite their invaluable service, forest and wildland firefighters do not receive the recognition, protections, and retirement benefits that their urban and structural counterparts do. This built-in inequality must be addressed so that these essential workers receive the recognition and protection they rightfully deserve. 

There also needs to be a focus on recruitment and retention, something  Canada’s unions have advocated for a long time.  

These fires are not isolated incidents. They are part of a larger pattern that can no longer be ignored. Climate change is real, and its impacts are accelerating. The time for half-measures and delay is over. 

Workers must have a seat at the table when it comes to shaping the future of our country. The climate crisis is a workers’ issue, a public health issue, an economic issue—and it demands bold, coordinated action. 

To all the workers and families on the frontlines of this crisis, we stand with you in solidarity. We stand for justice, equality, and recognition of the critical work you do—every day, and in every part of this country.