Ontario emergency minister's interview cut short after wildfire response questions
Ontario's Emergency Preparedness Minister Jill Dunlop faced criticism over the province's wildfire response during an interview that was abruptly cut short by her staff. Community leaders, including First Nations chiefs, have called for a public inquiry into the handling of the crisis.
Why it matters
The incident highlights political tension regarding government accountability and the effectiveness of emergency services during natural disasters.
With wildfires burning across much of northwestern Ontario , Dunlop's office is responsible for co-ordinating emergency evacuations, shelter and wraparound services for people fleeing the flames.
Several community leaders, including First Nations chiefs , have criticized the province's emergency response as slow, disorganized and unco-ordinated.
When As It Happens host Nil Köksal raised those concerns with Dunlop, the minister said her department has had "co-ordination calls every day with the communities to ensure that we're working hand-in-hand and that they have the most up-to-date information."
But immediately after Dunlop answered the question, one of the minister's staff members interrupted the call, saying it was time to "wrap it up."
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