STATEMENT FROM RACHEL NOTLEY ON OVERLAND FLOODING IN RMWB

EDMONTON – Alberta NDP Leader Rachel Notley issued the following statement regarding the mandatory evacuations and local state of emergency in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo:

“Today's rapid flooding through Fort McMurray is devastating, as families living downtown have been forced to evacuate their homes; some for the second time since the 2016 wildfire. This is beyond stressful, and for many it will trigger memories that are traumatic and painful. I also know the people of Fort McMurray stand resolute as the beacon of strength in our north.

“In the middle of a local state of emergency, the last thing people want to hear is more uncertainty. That is why it is critical in the coming days that the province has a package of supports ready for residents that includes financial assistance for families and workers forced to evacuate as well as ensuring essential services, food supply and emergency response can continue for residents staying in their homes unaffected by the flood.

“We understand this is made even more difficult during this pandemic. Our Caucus offers our assistance to Premier Kenney and the Government of Alberta to help and support in any way we can. Fort McMurray, in many ways, is a symbol of Alberta strength and we must all work together to have the backs of the Albertans who call Wood Buffalo home.”