Ottawa, ON – The Hon. Pierre Poilievre, Member of Parliament for Battle River—Crowfoot and Leader of His Majesty’s Loyal Opposition and the Conservative Party of Canada, released the following statement on the recent floods affecting much of central Alberta:
“Yesterday, I spoke with Reeve Gene Hrabec from Beaver County, and heard about the loss this flooding is causing. Thousands of Albertans are facing devastation across Beaver County, including in Tofield, in Camrose County, and surrounding towns, villages and counties. This flooding tragically comes just a week after the loss of the Viking Auction Market in a fire.
“Homes have been damaged, businesses, like Tofield Packers, have been forced to temporarily close, and farmers are facing the devastating impact of this flooding. I’ve heard how animals, and our prized agricultural land, have borne the brunt of up to 11 inches of water, as creeks have risen to be as high as a cow’s neck.
“As Tofield Mayor Adam Hall noted, ‘Our wastewater management system is holding, but it is being taxed by the influx of the water. Our drinking water is secure and is not in any threat of being compromised.’ I echo his call for residents to limit the amount of wastewater they’re producing, including by not running dishwashers, washing machines and limiting showers and toilet use.
“During this distressing time, I want to assure residents that as Member of Parliament for Battle River—Crowfoot, I am ready to work with every level of government alongside my colleagues in neighbouring communities to help coordinate services.
“I would like to thank all the first responders who have been providing aid and all those who have been working tirelessly to pump out the excess water and respond to the flood. And I call on the federal government to make all resources available to the province if requested. My constituency office remains open for residents who have been impacted and need assistance.
“Albertans, especially those in our rural communities, are a proud and resilient people – always ready to help a neighbour in need. Through this natural disaster, I believe that spirit will triumph, no matter the challenge.”