Ottawa, Ontario (June 24, 2013) - The Honourable Bernard Valcourt, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, issued the following statement today on Government of Canada support for First Nations affected by the 2013 spring flooding in Alberta.
Our Government's priority is the health and safety of all Canadians affected by the devastating floods in Alberta.
Both I, and my office, have maintained regular contact with regional First Nation leadership to ensure that the communities' immediate health and safety needs are being met. Departmental officials have also visited the affected communities, in addition to Health Canada's environmental health officers, to ensure they have the immediate support required at this difficult time.
Our Government has been working closely with Alberta Emergency Management Agency, First Nations leaders and other emergency partners to ensure that residents of affected First Nations are safe.
We understand that this is an extremely difficult situation for the people of Alberta. I want to acknowledge the strength, tenacity and compassion community members and their leaders have shown toward their fellow citizens at this difficult time.
I also want to reassure them that Canada remains steadfast in its commitment to assisting First Nations as they respond to the flooding in their communities.
We will continue to monitor the flood situation closely as we transition our efforts to supporting the affected First Nations in their recovery. While some communities have begun returning home, the Government of Canada continues to work with affected First Nations, the province and other emergency partners to assess the damage and help people to return home safely.
Andrea Richer
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Bernard Valcourt
819-997-0002
Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada
819-953-1160
