In a press statement, Chrystia Freeland, the deputy prime minister and finance minister of Canada, announced that the federal government is committed to accelerating the provision of disaster relief to areas in Nova Scotia that were affected by last weekend’s flooding. This declaration came after Freeland visited the small community of Brooklyn and witnessed the devastation left by the heavy rainfall, including the destruction of a bridge.
When asked by reporters if the government would expedite financial assistance for uninsured flood victims, Freeland acknowledged the need for improvement and expressed a determination to work harder in addressing the situation. She emphasized that the focus is currently on disaster response but reassured the public that discussions are underway to develop effective strategies for supporting affected individuals.
Since the post-tropical storm Fiona hit Nova Scotia on September 24, 2022, residents whose homes were damaged have expressed frustration with the delay in receiving assistance through the provincially administered disaster relief program, which is largely funded by the federal government. The federal government has committed to funding up to 90% of the maximum amount of $200,000 available to homeowners for uninsured flood damage. While the program is administered by the province, the eligibility guidelines are set federally.
The damage to provincial infrastructure caused by the flooding has been substantial, leading to a significant financial burden for the provincial government. The Department of Public Works reported that they have already repaired nearly 500 sections of damaged roads and 60 road shoulders. Additionally, 62 culverts have been replaced, and 19 bridges that required minor repairs have been reopened. However, there are still about 20 provincial road closures, and further repairs are needed for 29 bridges. Another seven bridges will need to be completely replaced.
Public Works Minister Kim Masland indicated that the full extent of the damage is yet to be determined, but the cost is estimated to be in the tens of millions. She stated that her department will be seeking assistance from the federal government through disaster relief funds to alleviate the financial strain.
Efforts to assess and repair damaged infrastructure are ongoing, with work crews evaluating the safety of a 60-meter bridge near Exit 7 on Highway 103. The closure of this stretch of highway has impacted the daily travel of approximately 10,000 vehicles. Masland emphasized the importance of reopening the highway promptly and mentioned that engineers have been present since Saturday to assess the damage and develop a plan for repair.
Freeland, after witnessing the destruction caused by the flooding, expressed her shock and emphasized the need for immediate action to address the devastating consequences. Freeland also expressed concern over reports that some residents in rural areas did not receive public alerts about the flash flooding. Premier Tim Houston acknowledged the issue of limited cellular coverage and stated that discussions are ongoing with Build Nova Scotia, a Crown corporation responsible for infrastructure development, to improve this service.
Freeland agreed that it is unacceptable for people to be unable to receive emergency alerts and pledged to raise the issue with the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission and telecommunications companies. She also committed to urgently discussing the matter with François-Philippe Champagne, the federal minister of Industry. The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission is responsible for the National Public Alerting System, which enables emergency management organizations to warn the public about disasters.
The heavy rainfall in Nova Scotia resulted in up to 250 millimeters of precipitation in various regions of the province. The Canadian Press first published this report on July 27, 2023.
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