Provincial State of Emergency extended

The Provincial State of Emergency first issued a month ago in response to flooding and mudslides in B.C. has been extended.

Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, Mike Farnworth, made the announcement Monday, saying the measures must be maintained as there is a continued need for public safety support in affected communities and as the highway infrastructure remains in a vulnerable state.

Farnworth stated that though the highway closures and restrictions may impact people travelling over the winter holidays, they are necessary to ensure the supply chain is maintained.

The renewed state of emergency will be in place until December 28.

Farnworth also said he would be meeting with the federal and provincial ministers cabinet committee on disaster response and climate resilience late Monday to outline the progress being made on flood recovery and the collaboration needed going forward.

“We’ll discuss what additional supports are needed at the local level and how the federal government continues to ensure British Columbians are covered,” said Farnworth.

He added that the province is prioritizing, preparing for, and adapting to climate change, saying there is a need for more provincial involvement in flood mitigation and dyke management.

“We need the collaboration of all levels of government to make sure we can address the increasing demands and challenging challenges of a changing climate here in B.C.” said Farnworth.

“Our government stands ready to support everyone who has been impacted by these devastating floods.”

He added that the province is ready to offer support to flood evacuees, pointing to the approximately $12-million that has been distributed to the affected British Columbians already.

Farnworth also said Monday that the fuel restriction for the Lower Mainland, Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast will be lifted effective Tuesday, Dec. 14.

“This measure has been effective at maintaining a steady supply of gas for public use, while ensuring our essential service vehicles have priority access to what they need to do to make sure everything is looked after,” said Farnworth.