The federal government has announced a $39 million advance payment for New Brunswick, to aid the province in its flood recovery efforts.
CBC News reported that the fund is NB’s largest advance payment for disaster assistance. The advance payment is provided through the Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements by Public Safety Canada. Through the program, contributions begin when the costs for a disaster in NB exceed $2.3 million – the federal government is also required to pay 90% of all eligible costs above $11.6 million.
The assistance comes after severe flooding affected the province just three months ago – the worst NB has seen since 1973. The flooding was so strong that it caused road closures and forced over 1,600 residents from their homes.
According to deputy premier Stephen Horsman, the $39 million will be used primarily for recovery and rebuilding.
“The advanced payments will go towards the emergency payments, completed applications, buying flood victims’ homes and properties, flood mitigation efforts and public infrastructure,” Horsman explained.
The provincial government stated that residents can receive up to $160,000 for structural repairs to private residences, while small businesses and non-profits can get up to $500,000.
Notably, there will be no financial assistance for flood victims whose cottages were lost or damaged – except to cover for expenses for picking up debris.
