As the Province and local authorities move from flood response to recovery, Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, has amended his request for federal resources, and offered his gratitude to the federal government and provincial public safety partners for their help during the recent flooding:

“Many parts of the province were heavily impacted by the recent flood events. I am thankful to the federal government for responding so quickly to my request for assistance.

“Having a federal presence in affected communities within 36 hours was invaluable and morale-boosting, at a time when the outlook was not positive and exhaustion was nearing. This was particularly felt in the community of Grand Forks, hardest hit by this year’s flooding, where the arrival of troops provided reassurance and renewed energy to help overcome the significant challenges in that community.

“I am also extremely appreciative of the federal government’s efforts in providing additional personnel to support emergency operations centres, and for its assistance with accessing additional sources of flood control assets.”

Farnworth also expressed thanks to the BC Wildfire Service crews, the many volunteers, community agencies and members for their tireless work throughout this year’s spring freshet:

“While we now face the longer-term recovery process, I want to express my appreciation and my heartfelt thanks to the volunteers and organizations that stepped up in a time of need to stand with their neighbours and communities. Time and again, they demonstrate the resilience and generosity that make British Columbia such a great place to live.”