Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Mr. Speaker, the potential for spring flooding for communities situated along our rivers is a reality. For the community of Hay River, it is an annual event that must be prepared for.
Mr. Speaker, today I would like to recognize and thank the Town of Hay River, mayor and council, staff, along with the Hay River Community Emergency Management Committee and volunteers for the great work they did to plan, coordinate, and carry out activities to respond to potential spring flooding. The committee, under the supervision of Ross Potter, Director of Protective Services, makes the whole process appear effortless; however, we all know that it is not as easy as that, and for that, I commend Ross and his team for their dedication and the hard work that they do to keep the residents safe while protecting property and keeping us informed.
Mr. Speaker, I would also like to recognize and acknowledge the residents of Vale Island for the preparation each made in the event evacuation was required, and this year a temporary evacuation was required, which I am pleased to say went smoothly. It is always difficult to leave your home not knowing whether or not you will have a home to come back to. The residents of Vale Island looked to friends, relatives, and businesses for support, whether it was for temporary shelter, a place to set-up an RV, or somewhere to drop of their pets while they manage the stress of the situation.
Mr. Speaker, it takes a compassionate and well-organized community working together to ensure the safety of those that may be affected by any potential disaster. Hay River has proven time and time again it is that community, and for that, I again applaud the residents, businesses, town employees, volunteers, mayor and council, and all who worked to keep us informed and safe throughout spring breakup.Thank you, Mr. Speaker.