Defence Minister Anita Anand. Image: Video capture from CPAC.
Members of the Canadian Armed Forces are on the ground in Nova Scotia and P.E.I. to assist in the cleanup after post-tropical storm Fiona.
Defence Minister Anita Anand said in Cape Breton, a Canadian army reconnaissance team was on the ground Sunday evaluating the damage and identifying what military capabilities would best assist.
“Our Canadian Armed Forces will provide equipment and personnel to help with re-establishing electricity, roads, and bridges if required by the province,” said Anand.
Anand said soldiers arrived overnight on Prince Edward Island.
“Canadian Armed Forces are deploying immediately to help with the removal of vegetation and debris from roadways and to help restore the power grid,” Anand said.
In Newfoundland and Labrador, resources and personnel from the military have been activated to provide physical impact assessments and immediate on-the-ground support to local authorities to ensure the well-being and safety of residents.
“HMCS Margaret Brook is sailing from St. John’s this morning to conduct wellness checks in four communities on the south coast tomorrow as requested by the province,” Anand said on Monday.
Newfoundland and Labrador MP Gudie Hutchings spoke of the devastation in Port aux Basques and beyond.
She said the pictures do not portray the devastation in this area.
“I met with the mayor last night. I have been on the ground this morning and it is heartwrenching and gut-wrenching. The last count from the town this morning was there were 76 homes destroyed or structurally damaged,” Hutchings said.
The prime minister said he plans to visit Atlantic Canada this week to see the damage in person.
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