November 19, 2008
Interlake Areas Affected By Heavy Rain, Flooding To Receive Disaster Financial Assistance
Up to $670,000 in disaster financial assistance will be made available for infrastructure and private property damage caused by heavy rains throughout the Interlake and Westlake from
Aug. 20 to Sept. 2, Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Steve Ashton, minister responsible for emergency measures, announced today.
Aug. 20 to Sept. 2, Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Steve Ashton, minister responsible for emergency measures, announced today.
“Working with local governments, this government has determined that a Disaster Financial Assistance program is appropriate for municipalities, small businesses, farms and private individuals affected by flooding,” said Ashton.
The impacted areas already had substantial soil moisture, and heavy rains in the time period resulted in substantial overland flooding. This program administered by Manitoba Emergency Measures Organization adds to previously announced agricultural assistance programs managed by Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives (MAFRI).
The province has established the program for the rural municipalities of Alonsa, Armstrong, Bifrost, Eriksdale, Fisher, Gimli, Grahamdale, and Siglunes. Private individuals, businesses and farms with flood damage to property or infrastructure should contact their local authority and request an application for Disaster Financial Assistance. Agriculture producers have access to a variety of support programs available through MAFRI. For more information, producers should contact their local GO Team representative or go to www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/.
Disaster financial assistance is generally available for evacuation costs, costs to prevent or limit imminent damage and for non-insurable damage to property such as principle residences and buildings essential to the operation of eligible farms and small businesses. Individuals are encouraged to first seek assistance through individual insurance claims.
Application forms and further details about the program are available online at www.gov.mb.ca/emo or by contacting EMO at 204-945-3050 or toll-free 1-888-267-8298. Applications are also available at most municipal offices.
The total cost of this program is not expected to reach the minimum threshold for federal cost sharing required under the national Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements. However, the Government of Canada will be advised of Manitoba’s decision to provide disaster financial assistance in case actual costs exceed the current estimate.
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