The attempt by the Opposition NDP to institute an independent public inquiry regarding the government’s response to a wildfire that devastated a northern Saskatchewan village this summer has been thwarted. Saskatchewan NDP MLA Jordan McPhail’s proposal was rejected by the provincial government during its introduction on Tuesday. McPhail has spearheaded the NDP’s quest for information about the wildfire that swept through Denare Beach, Sask., causing the destruction of over 200 residences.
Rather than proceeding with the public inquiry, the provincial government has emphasized the independent review of the 2025 wildfire season that was recently announced. MNP has been tasked with conducting this review, which will provide opportunities for those directly impacted by the wildfires to share their stories and viewpoints, with the outcomes to be made publicly available.
McPhail expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s approach, stating that the government’s selection of participants for the review speaks volumes. Residents of Denare Beach are also critical of the government’s decision, with some present at the legislature on Tuesday. Tasha Young, who lost her home and business in the fire, initially trusted that the government would act appropriately following Premier Scott Moe’s belated visit and apology. However, she now finds the government’s refusal to conduct a public inquiry “unreasonable.”
Dustin Trumbley, another resident of Denare Beach, reiterated his demand for Public Safety Minister Tim McLeod to step down. Trumbley asserted that Moe should take the responsibility of seeking McLeod’s resignation, believing McLeod to be incapable of performing his duties adequately.
Rhonda Werbicki, another resident affected by the wildfire, expressed bewilderment over the government’s reluctance to heed calls for an inquiry. Werbicki questioned why, if the government truly exerted all efforts to aid the northern communities, they would reject the idea of a public inquiry and fail to prove their commitment to supporting those impacted.