NDP: Ford prioritizes $28.9M private jet over Northern wildfire protection

QUEEN’S PARK - Northern NDP Shadow Minister for Natural Resources MPP Guy Bourgouin (Mushkegowuk – James Bay) and MPP Lise Vaugeois (Thunder Bay – Superior North) stood in the Legislature to address the Premier’s $28.9 million investment in a private jet rather than the planes Ontarians actually need: Water bombers.

“After one of the most destructive wildfire seasons in Ontario’s history, the Premier promised six new water bombers, yet Budget 2026 delivers cuts instead of action,” said Bourgouin.

“Ontarians see a government willing to spend $28.9 million on a private jet while reducing wildfire response capacity. There is a clear precedent for leadership here: investing in the tools that protect communities must come before personal luxury.”

“While wildfires threatened communities across Ontario, water bombers sat idle and frontline firefighters were left without the support they needed,” said Vaugeois. “Now, there are growing concerns that the same shortages of trained pilots will persist.

“At a time when every minute counts, the government must prioritize hiring and resourcing the crews required to keep our communities safe and ensure critical equipment is ready to respond. Instead, Ford is deciding to invest in a $28.9 million private jet.”