NDP MP Ashton urges government to ensure telecommunication back up plans in place during climate emergencies

OTTAWA – On Tuesday, NDP MP Niki Ashton (Churchill-Keewatinook Aski) called on Trudeau’s Liberals to do more to protect the northern and rural communities impacted by wildfires.

The recent fires in Northern Manitoba burned through fibre optic and telecom lines, leaving residents in major centres like Flin Flon without any internet or cell service for days.

“Wildfire season is coming earlier and is causing more destruction because of our changing climate,” said Ashton. “It’s unacceptable for the Liberals to sit back and rely on private companies to fix these critical infrastructure issues without contingencies in place.”

Ashton is calling on the federal government to use its jurisdiction over telecommunications companies and show leadership to ensure critical infrastructure plans are in place for communities during climate emergencies.