Mr. Speaker, over the weekend the residents of Badger, in Newfoundland and Labrador, were faced with a community emergency.
The frigid waters of the Exploits, Red Indian and Badger Rivers rose quickly and spilled over their banks, covering half the community with as much as 1.5 metres of water. Flooding has caused the sewer system to fail and back up into some homes.
Thankfully no one was injured, but blocks of ice smashed through doors and windows of homes after an ice jam caused the three rivers to overflow.
The flood has forced the evacuation of the town's 1,200 residents. The flood came quickly and many were unprepared, having to flee their homes without their belongings. It could be days or weeks before they are allowed to return to their homes.
On behalf of all members of the House, I would like to extend our care and concern to the residents of this troubled town. May the resourcefulness and strong spirit of these people serve them well as they pull together in this time of crisis.