Harper Government Invests in a Proactive Approach to Potential Spring Flooding in New Brunswick First Nations

New Brunswick received record snowfall

OTTAWA, March 27, 2015 /CNW/ - The Honourable Bernard Valcourt, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, is investing $1.7 million in a proactive emergency response to potential risk of spring flooding on eight susceptible New Brunswick First Nations. 

Work is already underway on removing the vast amounts of snow that have fallen in the last couple of months. The crews are moving the snowpack away from key infrastructure and houses to reduce the impact of the spring melt. The snow is trucked away to sites designated in consultation with environmental officials.

New Brunswick's Emergency Measures Organization has noted that in addition to the larger snowpack on the ground for this time of year, it also possesses a higher than normal water content for a double threat. 

Removal is taking place at Elsipogtog, Buctouche, Indian Island, Esgenoopetitj, Eel Ground, Eel River Bar, Tobique and Metepenagiag First Nations.

Quick Facts

• Work began at four First Nations on March 7, 2015.
• Work began at three more First Nations on March 16, 2015.
• 800 truckloads of snow are being removed each day from Elsipogtog alone.

Quotes

"The best possible use of tax dollars is to prevent emergencies from occurring in the first place. I'm happy to see First Nations and the Government of Canada working together to ensure the safety of life and property. We all hope this work will mitigate any flooding that may occur during the spring melt."

Bernard Valcourt
Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development

"The North Shore Micmac District Council is pleased to partner with the Government of Canada on this project that proves once again that prevention is a good investment for everyone."

Kyle Francis
Circuit Rider, North Shore Micmac District Council

Associated Links

2015 Flooding in First Nations Communities

First Nation Profiles

Buctouche
Eel Ground
Eel River Bar
Elsipogtog
Esgenoopetitj
Indian Island
Metepenagiag
Tobique

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SOURCE Government of Canada

Contacts: Emily Hillstrom, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, 819-997-0002; Media Relations, Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada819-953-1160