Prime Minister Stephen Harper visits Manitoba Flood Zones

May 11, 2011

BRANDON, MANITOBA – Prime Minister Stephen Harper today visited communities in southern Manitoba and witnessed the effects of flooding that is afflicting the province this spring. He was accompanied by Premier of Manitoba Greg Selinger.

“Today I saw first hand the damage caused by severe flooding along the Assiniboine River and observed the remarkable work and dedication of the men and women in the Canadian Armed Forces who have stepped in to help fellow Canadians in distress,” said the Prime Minister.  “I was particularly taken by the efforts of Manitobans who are showing firm resolve and great perseverance in the face of such adversity.”

To date, more than 868 members of the Canadian Armed Forces, along with three CH-146 Griffon Helicopters, have been deployed to assist Manitobans. In total, the Government will send more than 1000 Canadian Armed Forces personnel. 

Tasks being performed include:

• Sandbagging and reinforcing dikes to preserve infrastructure and access routes;
• Assisting with the voluntary evacuation of citizens;
• Providing shelter for flood victims; and
• Offering logistical and material support.

The Government’s Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements (DFAA) program provides provinces and territories with compensation when the costs associated with a major natural disaster exceed what they could reasonably be expected to bear on their own. Under the DFAA, the Government will cost share eligible expenses such as repairs to public infrastructure and the cost of evacuation, transportation, and emergency food.

"In the coming weeks, our Government will continue working closely with local and provincial authorities to monitor the evolving situation and provide assistance where it is needed," said the Prime Minister.

“Our Government will stand by Manitobans and help them overcome the devastating effects of the floods,” the Prime Minister concluded.