Prime Minister Carney Appoints Eleanor Olszewski as Ministerial Lead for Jasper Recovery
Jasper Recovery Ministerial Lead to Coordinate Rebuilding Efforts
Ottawa, Ontario – Prime Minister Mark Carney has appointed Eleanor Olszewski, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada, as the federal Ministerial Lead for Jasper, reinforcing Ottawa’s long-term commitment to rebuilding the community following the devastating 2024 wildfires.
Jasper National Park and the town of Jasper were struck by one of the most significant wildfires in Canadian history in July 2024, destroying nearly one-third of the town and severely impacting the region’s tourism-based economy. Since then, the federal government has committed more than $383 million toward recovery and reconstruction.
Honoured that Prime Minister @MarkJCarney has named me Ministerial Lead for Jasper — a community working hard to rebuild after the devastating 2024 wildfires, and one that holds a special place in my heart as an Albertan. Progress has been made, but more needs to be done.
I’ll…
— Eleanor Olszewski 🇨🇦 (@EleanorO_MP) February 2, 2026
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, federal efforts to date have included expediting reconstruction through streamlined approval processes, securing interim housing for more than 350 families, completing debris removal on all affected lots, and advancing active construction at more than 80 properties.
Coordinating Long-Term Recovery
As Ministerial Lead, Olszewski will be responsible for coordinating the federal government’s recovery and rebuilding work in Jasper, working closely with provincial, municipal, and Indigenous partners to keep projects on track and deliver long-term results for residents and businesses.
“The people of Jasper have shown remarkable resilience as they rebuild their lives, their homes, and their businesses,” Prime Minister Carney said in a statement. He added that the appointment reflects the federal government’s long-term commitment to ensuring Jasper “rebuilds and recovers for generations to come.”
Olszewski said it was an honour to take on the role, noting that Jasper holds a personal significance for her and many Albertans. She said her focus will be on accelerating progress already underway and ensuring the community returns “better and stronger” following the wildfire.
Progress and Reopening Underway
While rebuilding continues, a significant portion of Jasper National Park has reopened to visitors, including extensive trail networks, day-use areas, and both front-country and back-country campgrounds. Parks Canada and partner agencies have played a central role in recovery, with more than 3,000 personnel involved in wildfire suppression, evacuation support, and the safe re-entry of residents during the 2024 emergency.
Federal officials say ongoing investments are aimed not only at restoring homes and infrastructure, but also at strengthening Jasper’s long-term resilience and economic recovery.
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