The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is making sure people in Conception Bay North have the support they need after this year’s wildfires.

Today, the Honourable Tony Wakeham, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, announced that the Temporary Housing Assistance Program has been extended to March 31, 2026. This means families who lost their homes will continue to receive financial support and temporary housing while long-term solutions are being put in place.

To help support recovery along the North Shore, Premier Wakeham has also set up a new Cabinet Committee on Wildfire Recovery and Safety. This committee will work closely with local leaders, community members, and emergency partners to make sure people get the help they need, whether it’s financial, social, or health related.

Members of the committee include:

• Honourable Helen Conway Ottenheimer, Minister of Justice and Public Safety (Chair)
• Honourable Chris Tibbs, Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs and Minister of Environment, Conservation and Climate Change
• Honourable Craig Pardy, Minister of Finance, President of Treasury Board and Minister of Seniors
• Honourable Joedy Wall, Minister of Social Supports and Well-Being

Minister Conway Ottenheimer and Riley Balsom, the MHA for Carbonear-Trinity- Bay de Verde, have already met with leaders from towns and unincorporated areas to listen directly to those affected. Their voices will help guide recovery efforts.

Premier Wakeham has also committed to match the funds raised through the recent ‘We Stand Guard Once More Benefit Concert’, doubling the impact of these contributions.

Additionally, the Provincial Government is taking a closer look at wildfire response to learn from this years’ experience. Areas for improvement include hiring more wildland firefighters earlier in the fire season, more training and better gear for volunteer firefighters, and making sure water bombers are fully operational and ready for action.

Together, these efforts will help make communities across our province safer for all of us.

Quotes
“To everyone affected by the wildfires in Conception Bay North, please know that you’re not alone. We’re here, we’re listening, and we’re acting. Extending housing support is one of the ways we’re helping people and families rebuild. Our commitment to you is long-term, and together, we’ll recover and build stronger for all of us.”
Honourable Tony Wakeham
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“The safety and well-being of residents and communities remain our top priority. We’re working closely with partners like the RCMP to make sure people feel secure and supported. We’re speaking directly to residents, community leaders and emergency partners to learn from their experiences and strengthen how we respond now and in the future.”
Honourable Helen Conway Ottenheimer
Minister of Justice and Public Safety

“I’ve spent a lot of time on the ground helping my neighbours, and I’ve seen just how hard these wildfires have hit our communities. I’m committed to standing with the people of Carbonear-Trinity-Bay de Verde every step of the way to make sure they get the support they need.”
Riley Balsom
MHA for Carbonear-Trinity- Bay de Verde

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