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House Hansard - 106

44th Parl. 1st Sess.
October 3, 2022 11:00AM
Context: House Hansard - 106 - Oct/3/22
Mr. Heath MacDonald (Malpeque, Lib.)
  • Oct/3/22 2:20:07 p.m.
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Mr. Speaker, on September 23, hurricane Fiona made landfall as the strongest hurricane in Canadian history. The 48 hours that followed are some that Atlantic Canadians will not soon forget. Coastal communities where fishing is their primary livelihood have been devastated, with small craft harbours, fishing gear and boats destroyed. Agriculture and farming will take years to build back. In addition to the wrecked barns, silos, crops and equipment, the mental health of farmers who work every day to feed Canadians their quality products has taken a serious blow. Even P.E.I. itself looks different, with some of our iconic coastlines eroding upward of 30 feet. This extreme weather event, intensified by climate change, will affect every single Islander for years to come. While there are many reasons to feel defeated, the community response has been truly heartwarming. First responders, line crews, Canadian Armed Forces and essential workers have been working around the clock. Municipalities opened reception centres across the island. Businesses donated food to ensure everyone had a hot meal, and neighbours opened their doors to one another to charge a device, use a freezer or have a cup of coffee. As we rebuild and recover, I call on the federal government to continue to support impacted residents and communities in my riding and across Atlantic Canada every step of the way. I am proud to be an Islander.
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