Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. The people of Nahanni Butte have been trying to get back to normal after last spring’s flood and community evacuation. There are still many needs to be met and I again call on the community members to be patient.
However, as I mentioned last week, we also need a long-term plan for Nahanni Butte, which may include relocating the community out of the current flood plain it sits in.
The flood level on the Liard River in June was at a 50-year high. Elders have never seen or experienced such high waters as during the time of that flood. We also hope and pray that this type of flood will not be repeated in our lifetime. The people of Nahanni Butte do live in fear of it happening again. I also do not want to see us replacing the community gymnasium floor for a fourth time.
Climate change is increasing the risk of more frequent and more severe floods in our region. The community is suggesting a move of about 10 kilometres to the east side of the Liard River where the access road from the highway is.
Community leaders are suggesting that it does make sense to relocate there on higher ground. Relocation could be a long-term solution, with community support, and this is a good time to re-evaluate this community. I also believe that our government should consider this option seriously with due attention to the wishes of the people.
I will have questions for the Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs on this subject later on today.
Thank you, Mr. Menicoche. The Member for Hay River North, Mr. Bouchard.
