Mr. Speaker, the residents of Badger are facing devastation as a result of the flooding of the Exploits River.
Their lives changed forever on February 15 when the raging water and ice floes resulted in the total evacuation of the community.
The devastation is phenomenal. Family homes have been destroyed. The town's infrastructure is collapsing. Businesses have shut down indefinitely. The social and economic impact is staggering. The despair and anxiety are gut wrenching.
Among these emotions there has been an outpouring of sympathy, generosity and caring. Compassion is what makes us proud to be Canadians.
I call upon the federal government to respond in our time of need. I ask that a special relief fund be put in place. The residents of Badger need to know that their country is with them at this very difficult hour.