My question is for the Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry.

Many rural and remote communities across Ontario have experienced difficulties and challenges as a result of extreme weather events. These include fast and powerful storms known as derechos, such as what we witnessed in May of last year, as well as tornado activity in July. These events pose a significant threat to life and safety in several communities, including my own. Individuals and families experienced first-hand the mess that was left behind from downed trees as well as other debris. We also know that downed trees can create other hazards, including the risk for fires and flooding.

Can the minister please explain how our government is supporting communities across Ontario in responding to incidents of severe weather and the potential risks they create?

I want to thank the minister for his response.

Ontario communities that have been hit hard by flooding in the past are paying attention to major waterways in anticipation of ice breakup, which is expected to begin in early May.

Flooding in Ontario is typically caused by a combination of factors that has included rapidly melting snow, ice jams, high lake levels or storm surges from heavy rain.

However, last year’s significant weather-related events left debris that can also increase the risk of flooding.

Can the minister please elaborate on how the funding investments made by our government will reduce the risks that come with severe weather events?

Thank you to the member from Peterborough–Kawartha, a riding that is part of the God’s country network of ridings.

Speaker, we have seen terrible damage to property on crown and private forests, forest access roads and other public roads across Ontario. For the town of Peterborough, and in eastern Ontario, the rebuilding and repair are ongoing.

Sometimes that damage left behind from these natural disasters can actually pose new risks to public safety. Those downed trees and the debris on land and water can lead to an increased risk of flood and fire incidents today. So, even as you work and return things to normal, last year’s severe weather continues to create concerns.

I know from direct experience how small communities work hard to support one another in tough times like these. And our government is committed to doing our part and building a strong Ontario for now and in the future.

Yesterday I was pleased to announce in the GTA, the greater Tweed area, that the ministry will be providing $5.5 million to municipalities impacted by last year’s derecho.

During my time as mayor, in Bracebridge, in 2013 and 2019, we saw the results of natural disasters when flooding led to a state of emergency. So I’m speaking to you today with a keen awareness of the importance of community, both here and across Ontario.

Currently, the province’s Surface Water Monitoring Centre continues to monitor water levels in other areas at risk throughout the province.

The funding announced yesterday, $5.5 million, will ensure that the destruction caused by last year’s severe weather events do not pose a threat to public safety. That means rivers that were once blocked by collapsed trees will now flow unobstructed, and drying brush piles will be chipped and stored safely. It will also help carry out forest regeneration and support the continued health and well-being of those forests. I’m confident that this funding will help towns affected by the weather events of last year to make meaningful progress towards recovery.