COLD LAKE, AB (July 10, 2015): Today, Wildrose Bonnyville-Cold Lake MLA Scott Cyr released the following statement on the tremendous support the city of Cold Lake, Cold Lake First Nations, the Canadian Red Cross and the Saskatchewan government are showing to wildfire evacuees from Saskatchewan.
“I’m overwhelmed by the support our community is showing for evacuees forced to leave their homes.
“Cold Lake, a city of 13,000 people, is currently housing roughly 700 evacuees, with the Alberta government estimating over 5,000 evacuees could call our town home shortly.
“Recently, my colleague from Lac La Biche-St. Paul-Two Hills and Shadow Minister of Aboriginal Relations, Dave Hanson met with first responders and the First Nations community in Cold Lake. From our First Nations leaders, to the people of Cold Lake, they have done an incredible job setting up accommodations, showing hospitality and providing strength during these difficult circumstances.
“Without question, residents of Cold Lake are welcoming people from the La Ronge area of Saskatchewan with open arms. The Red Cross expects that it will take at least one week after the fire is put out to reinstate all services in the La Ronge area. The residents of Cold Lake are happy to assist evacuees throughout the process.
“Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with the families and we urge the Alberta government to continue to provide all assistance necessary for the region.”