July 12, 2011

Once again I am amazed at the resiliency of Northern Albertans, the people I am proud to represent in Ottawa. If the devastating wildfires that consumed a significant portion of Slave Lake weren’t enough, now they have been hit with flooding due to the recent heavy rainfalls. But Slave Lake citizens haven’t given up; they simply dug in and are assisting each other to deal with this latest blow.

I have had several queries regarding the Government of Canada’s responsibility in rebuilding Slave Lake and would like to clarify my role. Because the Slave Lake disasters fall under provincial jurisdiction, we have no authority to help in issues that are constitutionally all the province’s jurisdiction unless requested to do so by the Province of Alberta.

I have been working with the Province of Alberta and Mayor Pillee-Kinney since residents were evacuated. I’ve spoken to Prime Minister Harper and all concerned Ministers on several occasions. I have also written letters of support as requested by the Mayor regarding Slave Lake's housing issues and her proposed solutions.

I invite you to read about the Government of Canada’s Disaster Fund Assistance Arrangements:

http://www.publicsafety.gc.ca/prg/em/dfaa/index-eng.aspx

I believe Appendix B contains information of interest. As the DFAA explains, federal assistance comes in the form of repayment to the province.

We are waiting for more specific details from the Minister of Public Safety and will forward that information when we receive it.

Hopefully this clarifies my efforts on behalf of Slave Lake residents during this worrisome time.


News from Ottawa

Honouring Outstanding Canadians

www.pm.gc.ca/awards

Today, Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development Canada announced that the call for nominations to recognize outstanding Canadians who volunteer their time and energy to make stronger communities across Canada is now open.  The period to nominate is now open until September 9th, 2011 either on-line or by submitting written nomination papers.

• Every year, millions of Canadians volunteer their time, energy and expertise to help make their communities stronger.
• Our government understands the sacrifices and effort people, businesses and not-for-profit organizations make in order help build a better Canada.
• That is why we are pleased to announce the nomination period for the Prime Minister’s Volunteer Awards is now open until September 9th, 2011.
• The Prime Minister’s Volunteer Awards, announced this past spring, is a way to recognize the individuals, businesses and not-for-profit organizations that perform outstanding service to make real change in their communities.
• 17 awards will be given in total, 3 for each region in the categories below and 2 national awards for Lifetime Achievement and Emerging Leaders:
• Community Leader (for individuals, or groups)
• Business Leader (for businesses)
• Social Innovator (for not-for-profit organizations)
• Nominations are open to any Canadian, business or not-for-profit organizations who have donated their time, energy or expertise – not including political activities.

For more information on the nomination process please visit www.pm.gc.ca/awards