Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as you are aware, homes, businesses, and infrastructure in the Town of Hay River, K’atl’odeeche, West Point First Nation, along with a home in Enterprise and one at Riverwood’s subdivision, were severely impacted by flooding, with what may well be unprecedented levels of ice and water for the area.
Mr. Speaker, I would like to acknowledge the effort and action by the Hay River emergency measures organization for the work they did to ensure all residents were evacuated safely with no loss of life.
Mr. Speaker, in addition to the EMO, it is important to recognize the many individuals and businesses who provided financial support, food, clothing, equipment, fuel, accommodations, transportation and for that support I say thank you.
We must also recognize the Hamlet of Enterprise, Town of Fort Smith, Hamlet of Fort Providence, Hamlet of Fort Resolution, the City of Yellowknife, and others who opened up their communities and provided temporary accommodation, meals, and other support to the many evacuees, their families and pets during this stressful time.
Mr. Speaker, this event was the perfect storm. In addition to large amounts of ice and high water levels throughout the Hay River watershed, we had snow, freezing temperatures, and a nighttime evacuation, all which contributed to the making for a dangerous event. The devastation and extent of damage was not limited to ice and water but that of sewer backups, loss of access to potable water, and electricity.
Mr. Speaker, to really comprehend the extent of damage one had to see it in real time and, most importantly, listen to the stories of those who were impacted.
Mr. Speaker, the effects of this flood is just setting in as residents now have time to reflect on the aftermath. I have spoken to many residents who are appreciative of the quick deployment of pathfinders and assessors by Municipal and Community Affairs. However, those who have submitted applications under the Disaster Assistance Policy and had their property assessed are now asking what is next in the process.
For those that have completely lost their homes due to extensive flood damage are concerned that the changes to the policy, while a move in the right direction, is not indicative of real replacement costs of homes. In the past two years, the cost of labour and material has risen considerably.
Mr. Speaker, when it is costing this government well over half a million dollars to deliver new public housing units, the $240,000 is inadequate, deficient, and an insult to those who find themselves with limited negotiating power and now may well need a mortgage to rebuild.
Mr. Speaker, I will have questions for the Minister of MACA at the appropriate time.
Thank you, Member for Hay River South. Members' statements. Member for Yellowknife North.
