The harrowing wildfires in western Canada are sparking memories of a devastating fire season in Quebec in 2023. Smoke blanketed Montreal and other parts of the province, with some towns being evacuated due to flames. However, experts believe that this year may not be as catastrophic as last year, with forecasts indicating more moisture and less severe drought conditions in Quebec. In contrast, western Canada is facing severe drought conditions, with multiple communities in Manitoba, B.C., and Alberta issuing emergency evacuation orders and alerts due to wildfires that have been smouldering since last winter.
Despite the moist spring in Quebec, there have already been over 80 fires in the province this year, all caused by people. While this number is average for this time of year, the Quebec forest fire fighting agency, SOPFEU, is not taking any chances. The agency is fully staffed and has been empowered by a recent announcement of $29 million in new funding over the next five years. However, a labour conflict is looming as workers at SOPFEU are demanding higher wages to continue risking their lives in fighting wildfires. Despite this conflict, SOPFEU is committed to ensuring that Quebec remains safe from wildfires.
UNIFOR Quebec director Daniel Cloutier has highlighted the turnover at SOPFEU due to low wages, with firefighters earning just over $20 per hour. Negotiations are ongoing between SOPFEU and UNIFOR, with workers voting in favor of a strike last week. However, as an essential service, SOPFEU firefighters cannot walk off the job during fire season. The agency is determined to prevent Quebec from burning, and any strike action will not jeopardize their commitment to protecting the province from wildfires.
While most people hope for clear skies during the summer, wet weather continuing throughout the spring will help to control the spread of wildfires in Quebec. Despite the challenges and uncertainties surrounding fire season, experts and officials are cautiously optimistic about the upcoming season. The situation in western Canada serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of wildfires, and the importance of being prepared and proactive in addressing the threat of wildfires in Quebec. Through increased funding and staffing, as well as ongoing negotiations to address labor concerns, SOPFEU is working diligently to ensure the safety and well-being of Quebec residents during the fire season.
