Figures updated for flood recovery work

Figures released by the provincial government in early December indicate that almost $175 million in preliminary disaster assistance has been provided to southern Alberta municipalities and First Nations to begin rebuilding after the June flood. There are still over 1,000 people living in temporary accommodations, including 326 in relief shelters on the Siksika First Nation. Almost $70 million was distributed in immediate support as preloaded debit cards or cheques to more than 56,000 Albertans forced from their homes. When Premier Alison Redford reworked her Cabinet in mid-December, flood recovery work remained a priority as three associate ministers for regional recovery and reconstruction remained: Kyle Fawcett (southwest region), Greg Weadick (southeast region) and Rick Fraser (High River).