The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Barry Petten, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure:

Speaker, firefighting resources are more than equipment and aircraft – they represent safety, resilience, and hope for all of us. When last year’s wildfires swept through our region, residents endured heartbreaking loss and disruption. Families were forced to evacuate, homes and cherished possessions were damaged or destroyed, and entire communities were left grappling with the emotional and physical aftermath. Those experiences remain deeply felt and serve as a powerful reminder of what is at stake when wildfire strikes.

In moments like these, Speaker, the strength of our firefighting capabilities truly matters. Ground crews and aerial resources work together to slow fires and protect infrastructure, with an aim of helping residents return home. Water bombers, in particular, are a visible symbol of reassurance, arriving when conditions are most dangerous and time is critical.

Speaker, that is why the progress being made on the fifth water bomber is so important. Structural repairs are advancing extremely well, with most of the work already completed. The project remains firmly on schedule, and the aircraft is expected to return to service on May 1 for this year’s fire season. Its return will enhance our readiness and ensure we are better prepared to protect communities and help strengthen emergency response, as we face the wildfire season ahead.

Thank you, Speaker.