Letters to the Editor

Tuesday 3 April 2012

UPDATE - flood recovery efforts in Perth-Andover area


"I want to reassure affected residents that we are doing everything we can to ensure that their immediate needs are being met," Premier David Alward said. "I applaud the work being done by the Village of Perth-Andover to assist with cleanup and recovery. Work is beginning to investigate the possibility of a long-term solution to the flood risk in the area, but for now, our priority is helping people to get back to normal as soon as possible.”




Local authorities and provincial government representatives have been working with Red Cross and other volunteer organizations and individuals to help residents return to their homes as soon as it is safe to do so. Health and safety inspection teams have been in the area since March 25, visiting affected residences and doing inspections.  

Public Safety Minister and Solicitor General Robert Trevors said the recovery process is moving along quickly.

"Our teams have inspected more than 180 properties in Perth-Andover, the Tobique First Nation and surrounding areas," Trevors said. "In addition, our staff members have received and recorded nearly 200 applications for assistance, and we hope to have the first advance payments for Disaster Financial Assistance available soon. We realize this is a difficult time for those affected, and we appreciate everyone's patience as the recovery process continues."

Adjusters have begun meeting with homeowners to assess their losses. Officials are looking at the most severely damaged properties first. Residential property owners may be eligible for up to $80,000 for repairs to structural damage, while small businesses may be eligible for more, depending on the scale of the damage. Properties deemed to be beyond economical repair may be eligible for a buyout.  

Owners of damaged properties should call Service New Brunswick at 1-888-298-8555 to register for provincial government services if they have not already done so. Once their information is recorded, they will receive an information kit describing how to apply for Disaster Financial Assistance along with advice on post-flood cleanup.