The fire shut down oil sands firms in the province which are just starting to re-open. “I’d like to again thank the first responders who have worked around the clock to protect homes and who are now stabilizing the community so the rebuilding can start”. The prime minister was presented with his own Fort McMurray fire jacket by Chief Darby Allen on the tarmac of the worldwide airport prior to a flight to Fort McMurray, about 435 kilometres to the northeast. Some homes still stood, while others had burned to their foundations. After landing, Trudeau got on a military helicopter for a first-hand look from the air. He is also to tour a damaged neighbourhood on the ground and meet with first responders and volunteers.
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There are warnings that the fire will damage the economy and oil industry, and that loan sharks may look to take advantage of people forced to flee their homes and who are short of cash.
Justin Trudeau has said most Canadians have yet to grasp the lengths to which firefighters went to save almost 90% of the oil sands capital of Fort McMurray from a massive wildfire.
Mr Trudeau’s government has enacted a cabinet committee for Fort McMurray aid and reconstruction efforts.
Trudeau’s plans include a meeting with Alberta Premier Rachel Notley later today.
Pearce, who believes both her Fort McMurray home and the hotel where she works survived the fire, said the emergency funds are helpful.
After his aerial tour, Trudeau was briefed on progress fighting the fire, which has moved east of Fort McMurray into less inhabited areas, and praised emergency officials for their “valour and courage” in preserving much of the town.
Trudeau also announced EI extensions to Edmonton residents and other parts of Canada, which he said were part of new figures and not the wildfire itself.
Mr Allen said having the prime minister visit is a morale boost.
“I’m OK at putting out fires and getting people out, but the next phase is not mine”, Allen said. “They’ve shone in helping us deal with the biggest challenge faced by our organization in our history, as well as the wider community”. “I heard the line behind our home burned, but we are not sure about our house”, evacuee Vikas Shiledarbaxi said.
DBRS said in a briefing on Friday that it is still premature to obtain accurate claim estimates as access to Fort McMurray is restricted.
Mr Hehr, who represents a Calgary district, said it was “very hard for me as an Albertan” to witness the damage.
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“We are very proud of what our personnel have accomplished over the past nine days”, said BGen Wayne Eyre, Commander, Joint Task Force West.
