La Verendrye MLA Konrad Narth is urging residents in southeastern Manitoba to remain patient as firefighters continue to battle wildfires in the region. Narth says he has stayed in touch with municipal officials while attending the legislature in Winnipeg.
"I've been keeping in contact with the R.M. of Piney, EMO and the local fire departments to keep tabs on what's going on and what's needed out in that Carrick/Badger fire," he said. "I was able to come out two different evenings to see crews and the damage that has been done firsthand."
Community steps up to help
Narth praised the efforts of local residents, including farmers from La Broquerie and St. Labre, who came together to help battle the fire in St. Labre.
"They came together at a moment's notice, not because they were asked to, but because they wanted to help out their friends and neighbours," he said.
Narth also noted the generosity of businesses in the region, mentioning Smoking Guns Barbecue, a La Broquerie-based company that was looking for a way to support firefighting efforts. " We put them in contact with the Office of the Fire Commissioner and they're out there right now as we speak, feeding fire crews with great barbecue," he said.
Narth urges patience over long weekend
Looking ahead to the long weekend, Narth urged residents of the RM of Piney to remain patient and vigilant.
"There's still a lot of work for fire crews and the municipality and the province to do to make sure that homes are safe to go back to," he said. "Check on your neighbours and friends that are involved in the evacuations. Make sure they have the supplies they need and just try to enjoy the weekend as best as possible."
-With files from Kenton Dyck.