AMHERST, NS/SACKVILLE, NB – Cumberland North MLA Elizabeth Smith-McCrossin and Memramcook-Tantramar MLA Megan Mitton have joined forces in hopes of pressuring their respective provincial governments to reconsider their decision not to apply to the federal Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund to address the major flood risk that threatens the Isthmus of Chignecto.
“The deadline for applications is July 19 and it appears neither government is going to take advantage of the opportunity to secure funding for this critical infrastructure project,” said Smith-McCrossin.
“Despite dire warnings from experts, our governments continue to use the project as a political football by demanding the federal government pay the entire cost. It is time to get serious and protect this vital transportation, utility and communication link before something catastrophic happens,” Mitton added.
Both Mitton and Smith-McCrossin continue to worry about the apparent lack of urgency on the part of both governments.
“Other areas of our country and the world have ignored similar warnings and the results have been devastating,” said Mitton. “The floods in Abbotsford, BC in 2021 and the levee breaches in New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina are prime examples of what can happen when critical work like this is not done in a timely manner.”
Both MLAs agree that it is time the two premiers come to the Isthmus and speak with local experts that truly understand the real dangers facing the area. “They need to leave their offices in Fredericton and Halifax and take a first-hand look. They simply must listen before it is too late,” warned Smith-McCrossin.
– 30 –