Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the Disaster Assistance Policy was established for a reason; that being, to provide financial support to those impacted by natural disasters that may not be covered through standard insurance policies. The flooding in Hay River is one of those occurrences where that financial support was required, and that support has been well received and appreciated by residents and business owners.
Mr. Speaker, it has now been several months since flooding occurred in Hay River. As we know, many residents have been displaced from their homes, with many continuing to live in temporary accommodations. – this is extremely difficult for many and more so for seniors.
Mr. Speaker, some residents are in commercial accommodations while others chose to be with family or friends. Due to a shortage of contractors, untimely processes, and communication issues around DAP claims, some residents are concerned that they may be unable to return to their homes before next summer, or the summer after.
Mr. Speaker, residents say they continue to wait on clear answers from this government on home replacement, home repairs, and mitigation solutions. They are finding the requirement to jump through everchanging government policy, rules, and forms, is causing additional stress and worry. Mr. Speaker, it is not just the residents, but also the contractors and local suppliers that are facing additional issues such as labour and material shortage which is not unique to the NWT. Impacted residents are waiting extended periods for quotes from contractors. Contractors are just too busy to quote and do not want to give false hope to residents that work can get started.
Mr. Speaker, it is important to note that prior to the damage caused by flooding, many of the local contractors had a full slate of work on their plate. The addition of taking on flood damage remediation forced each to refocus and rearrange existing work which will result in some government and private projects falling behind.
Mr. Speaker, what is required from this government is additional support for the pathfinders, professional services, technical support, and access to contractors. We must streamline the process to move remediation of homes along. As winter approaches, it is time for the Minister of MACA and his staff to visit Hay River to hear ongoing concerns from those impacted by the flood. He needs to provide reassurance to the residents and businesses that his department is listening and willing to take the necessary steps support remediation efforts. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Thank you, Member for Hay River South. Members' statements. Member for Nunakput.
