2023-08-15 Repositioning of Fort Smith team members

Dear colleagues, 

I know that we have all watched the fire situation in the Northwest Territories and Yukon with great concern. Where communities have been evacuated, Parks Canada team members and operations have also been relocated and I am pleased to report that all are safe. 

In light of escalating fire conditions and compromised infrastructure in Fort Smith, Parks Canada, along with Alberta and Northwest Territories firefighter teams, and with the support of the Town of Fort Smith, made the decision to reposition first responders to ensure the safety of our dedicated teams and the community.

We are fully committed to supporting everyone affected during this transition and will continue to respond to the fire to the extent possible as conditions allow. Our thoughts are with everyone impacted by this situation. More information will be provided as the situation evolves.

We recognize that the ongoing fires may cause increased stress, fear and anxiety for many individuals. Remember that the Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) offers short-term psychological support to all employees and their immediate family. Contact your EFAP at 1-800-268-7708 (TTY digital service for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing: 1-800-567-5803) or by live chat (password: canada), Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Eastern time.

Ron Hallman

President & CEO

#StrongerTogether #ParksCanadaProud

Reminder to managers: In keeping with Parks Canada's procedures for communications with employees, managers are responsible for ensuring all team members under their responsibility receive the information intended for them. It is important that you find a means to transmit this message and, if any, the attachment(s) to employees without access to Parks Canada e-mail or the intranet, e.g. by posting it, circulating a paper copy or by any other appropriate means.