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August 9, 1996
(Forest Resources and Agrifoods)
Forest fire situation in Labrador
Beaton Tulk, Minister of Forest Resources and Agrifoods, gave
an update on the forest fire situation in Labrador. The fire
situation, he said, has been critical for the last five days,
with 43 active fires burning. "We have been fortunate,
however, that there has not been a lot of property or timber
loss. This is due largely to the efforts of the Newfoundland
Forest Service and the assistance of the towns. In particular,
special thanks must be given to town of Charlottetown whose
people used their own resources to keep the fire in control until
the Forest Service arrived."
The minister advises people to avoid travelling in the woods.
They should only do so after speaking to the Forest Service
personnel. Although the Trans Labrador Highway is open, those who
plan to travel along it should check with RNC in Wabush or
Labrador City. The minister also urges people, both in Labrador
and on the island, to use the utmost care and caution around the
woods.
The minister stated that the department is assigning the
majority of its resources to the Labrador area. If deemed
necessary, resources will be brought in from other provinces.
Contact: Gerald Fleming, (709) 637-2349; or Wayne Martin,
(709) 637-2416.
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