Opposition calls on government to give an update on water bomber staffing levels

    Monday, 24 June 2024 12:00

    By Tonya Organ

    Last year government reported having only 7 pilots available to staff 3 planes and have not issued a comprehensive update since then.

    Shadow Forestry Minister Pleaman Forsey is calling on government to give an update on the province’s water bomber staffing levels. Forsey highlighted that previously, government maintained 6 water bombers and 18 pilots. However, according to information released last July, that’s not the case. Last year government reported having only 7 pilots available to staff 3 planes and have not issued a comprehensive update since then. Forsey says “while Quebec and Ontario's assistance with battling blazes in Churchill Falls is appreciated, there are concerns regarding our own preparedness.” Forsey wonders if the province has the pilot and crew capacity to deploy all four planes simultaneously. 

     

     

     

    To report an error, submit a news tip, or provide feedback, please e-mail news@bayfm.ca or call (709) 637-0183.

    More from Local News

     

     

     

    BayFM recognizes support from the following agencies:

                        

    Today's Weather

    • Corner Brook

      Sunny intervals

      High: 7°C | Low: 1°C

    • Deer Lake

      Sunny intervals

      High: 6°C | Low: 0°C

    • Stephenville

      Heavy rain shower

      High: 5°C | Low: 1°C

    Podcasts

    • Center Stage with Stella

      Center Stage with Stella, April 8, 2026

      This week's guests are Chris and Kerry Wells (The Sunday Night Boys)

    • NL Summer Games 2026

      NL Summer Games 2026

      Secretary of the Host Committee Cara Pye joins Lenny on Bay Fm.

    • The Plain Truth

      The Plain Truth, Wednesday April 8, 2026

      Host Paula Sheppard's guest this week is Will Lummis, Regional Addictions Prevention Consultant with NL Health Services Western Zone