The attempt by the Opposition NDP to set up an independent public inquiry into the government’s handling of a wildfire that devastated a northern Saskatchewan village this summer has been thwarted. The motion, presented by Saskatchewan NDP MLA Jordan McPhail, was rejected by the provincial government during its introduction on Tuesday. McPhail has spearheaded the NDP’s quest for information regarding the wildfire that swept through Denare Beach, Sask., in June, resulting in the destruction of over 200 residences.
Instead of the public inquiry, the provincial government is emphasizing the independent review of the 2025 wildfire season announced earlier this week, which will be conducted by MNP. The government assures that the review will offer affected individuals the chance to share their experiences and viewpoints, with the findings to be made public.
McPhail criticized the government’s course of action, stating that allowing the government to dictate who participates in the review speaks volumes. Denare Beach residents present in the legislature on Tuesday also expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s decision. Tasha Young, who lost her home and business in the fire, initially trusted the government following Premier Scott Moe’s belated apology for not visiting Denare Beach sooner. However, she now deems the government’s refusal of a public inquiry as “outrageous,” questioning why they are withholding answers sought by everyone.
Dustin Trumbley, another Denare Beach resident, reiterated his demand for Public Safety Minister Tim McLeod to step down. Trumbley suggested that Moe should request McLeod’s resignation, believing he is incapable of fulfilling his duties effectively.
Rhonda Werbicki, a resident who lost her home in the wildfire, expressed bewilderment at the government’s resistance to calls for an inquiry. Werbicki posed the question of why the government is reluctant to allow a public inquiry if they genuinely provided their utmost assistance to the north, challenging them to disprove any doubts.