Archived News Releases

News Release - Manitoba

July 5, 2011

Premier Thanks Canadian Forces for Assistance During Souris River Flood Fight

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Dangerous Work is Appreciated: Selinger

The Canadian Forces have completed emergency work necessary to build up flood defences in the community of Souris for the expected crest of the Souris River this week.  Premier Greg Selinger visited the community on Saturday as 400 Canadian Forces personnel joined 150 volunteers.  Today Selinger thanked the Canadian government, the Canadian Forces, deployed by Canada Command, and countless volunteers for stepping up once again to help protect Manitoba families.   

“Flood fighting is difficult and dangerous work.  Yesterday we were reminded of that when several soldiers and one volunteer were injured while working to protect Manitobans from the rising Souris River,” said Selinger.  “To those injured, our thoughts are with you and your families as we wish you a full and speedy recovery.  To everyone who has worked so hard to protect the community of Souris from this unprecedented natural disaster, thank you on behalf of all Manitobans.”

The premier requested military assistance on Saturday due to the urgent need to top up earthen dikes with sandbags.  Large numbers of additional outside personnel were required to ensure the needed tasks would be completed in time for the anticipated crest.

This is the second mission undertaken by Canadian Forces, Canada Command, during Manitoba’s 2011 flood fight.  On May 8, as it became clear the volume of water forecast on the Assiniboine River was more than the provincial control system could handle, the Province of Manitoba requested the assistance of the Canadian Forces for their unique assets and skills to provide assistance to the province in its operations to mitigate the effects of the flood.  That mission was successful in helping prevent a catastrophic breach of the dikes along the Assiniboine River east of Portage la Prairie, the premier said. 

 

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