Infrastructure minister in Calgary to talk about feds investing in natural disaster protection
The Government of Canada appears to be making some preemptive moves to curb the destruction that comes with the intensifying weather caused by climate change.
Canada’s Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, François-Philippe Champagne, is in Calgary today to announce funding for protection from natural disasters like floods, wildfires, and winter storms.
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YYC is no stranger to intense weather, as the floods of 2013, the smog of recent summers, and the biting cold of this past winter are all still fresh in the memories of many Calgarians.
“Now more than ever, communities need help adapting to the frequent and intensifying weather events caused by climate change,” a release from the Government of Canada reads.
“Reducing the impact of natural disasters such as flooding is critical to keeping Canadian families safe, protecting local businesses and supporting a strong economy and middle class.”
Champagne is taking a tour across the country, having been in Edmonton on March 11, and with plans to visit Canmore, Toronto, and Aurora within the coming week.
“Climate change is having a serious impact on Canadians across the country. Forest fires, floods and heat waves are becoming increasingly frequent events that put at risk the safety of Canadians and their communities,” said Champagne, in the release.
“That is why our government is investing to help communities withstand the intensifying impacts of climate change. These investments will help to protect the lives and livelihoods of Canadians. Together, we are building Canada now for a sustainable future.”
Over the next 12 years, the Government of Canada intends to invest over $180 billion towards public infrastructure in the country through their Investing in Canada plan.
Included in the funds is a $2 billion national program, the Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund, which hopes to help Canadians withstand natural hazards. The minimum cost of infrastructure projects through the fund is $20 million.
Champagne will be making announcements about funding for Drumheller and Calgary today, and for Canmore and Calgary on March 13.