The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is urging the federal government to extend Employment Insurance (EI) benefits and introduce greater flexibility for workers displaced by the province’s unprecedented wildfires.

In a letter dated August 14, 2025, Gerry Byrne, Minister of Jobs, Immigration and Growth, formally requested federal assistance from Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families. Byrne acknowledged the federal government’s ongoing support, including the deployment of Canadian Armed Forces and Coast Guard resources, but stressed the need for additional measures to address the financial hardship and uncertainty facing workers.

The province is seeking expedited EI claim processing for those experiencing employment interruptions due to wildfires, as well as an extension of a p

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