It is with heavy hearts that PSAC mourns the loss of three wildfire responders who died while supporting efforts to battle a wildfire near Fort Simpson, Northwest Territories. 

Our thoughts are with their families, loved ones, communities, the team at Buffalo Airways, and members of the Union of Northern Workers at ECC/GNWT who are grieving the sudden loss of coworkers and friends. 

Firefighters, pilots, air crews, emergency workers, and all those who respond to wildfires play a critical role in protecting communities. This tragedy is a reminder of the risks workers face when they put themselves in harm’s way to keep others safe. 

 “Across the country, workers respond to emergencies with courage, skill, and dedication. Our union grieves alongside the families, coworkers, and communities affected by this sudden loss, and we extend our deepest condolences during this incredibly difficult time” says PSAC National President Sharon DeSousa. 

Health and safety must always be the highest priority for every worker, especially those carrying out dangerous emergency response work. PSAC will continue to advocate for the strongest possible protections, training, resources, and supports to help prevent future tragedies.