Wildfires continue to rage across Manitoba, and the provincewide state of emergency remains in place. The government says the evacuation of Mathias Colomb Cree Nation is now complete, while efforts continue in evacuating Pimicikamak First Nation and Cross Lake. As of June 2nd, the Canadian Red Cross has registered more than 14-thousand-300 people. The province continues to remind evacuees to register so they can get financial and other supports. Firefighters are currently battling 27 active wildfires – and there have been 111 to date, well above the average of 88 for this time of year.
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First Nations leaders in northern Manitoba are calling on governments to provide the proper equipment needed to fight wildfires. They say a lack of gear has made their responses reactive rather than proactive. Gordie Bear at Mathias Colomb says they have two fire trucks and garden hoses used to flood the hockey rink. MKO’s Chief Garrison Settee says it’s like trying to fight a fire with a water pistol.
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Radio stations across the province, including Star FM and Q Country here in Brandon, are taking part in a province-wide radiothon supporting wildfire evacuees on Thursday. The aim is to raise funds for the Canadian Red Cross 2025 Manitoba Wildfires Appeal. Every dollar received will be matched by the Federal and Manitoba governments.
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If you’re a Brandon property owner and haven’t yet taken advantage of the Homeowners Affordability Tax Credit – the province has extended the deadline to apply to November 15th. It replaces the former Education Property Tax Credit and offers up to $1,500. There’s more information on the city’s website at City of Brandon –
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An association representing duty free stores, and a group of 15 border city mayors, are asking Ottawa for financial support. They’ve seen revenue decline by 60 to 80-percent as cross-border traffic dwindles due to the U.S. trade war. American President Donald Trump, meantime, has hiked tariffs on imports of steel and aluminum to 50%. He says it was necessary to protect national security and industries in the United States.
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Federal politicians will vote today on the government’s throne speech – the first big test for the Liberal minority government. This will be a confidence vote, which means if the government loses it, it could be forced into a general election. The Liberals lost a vote Monday as the Conservatives forced an amendment to the speech.
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The Manitoba Summer Fair opens this afternoon at Brandon’s Keystone Centre Grounds. Along with the Midway there’s the Kid Zone, a Petting Zoo, Indoor Market, horse shows and competitions, a classic car show, fireworks on Friday – and your chance to see the Grey Cup up close, and visit the Winnipeg Blue Bombers trailer. Gates open at 4:00 pm.
