Public Safety Minister says ranchers will be compensated for wildfire damage
Posted August 10, 2017 8:16 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – BC’s Public Safety Minister is offering assurances ranchers who’ve lost cattle because of wildfires burning in the Cariboo will be compensated.
“Rebuilding and compensation, all of those things are being addressed.”
Mike Farnworth is responding to Forestry Critic John Rustad‘s claims the New Democrats have been ignoring concerns raised by ranchers and others losing business because of road closures, evacuation orders and tourists canceling vacation plans in fire-damaged areas.
“It’s unfortunate some of the BC Liberals are trying to play politics on this front because the priority right now is fighting fires and getting those fires under control. Of course, damages arising from that will be covered –absolutely they are.”
But Rustad says he’s heard from ranchers about some of the problems.
“Making sure that they get information and accurate and timely information.”
Farnworth says the focus remains on putting out the fires, but six million dollars has already been approved to rebuild fences.
“And of course the federal government has indicated they will be there for us.”
He adds there’s still money left in the province’s $100-million emergency fund which is being managed by the Red Cross.
Farnworth insists disaster relief is coming for anyone losing business because of the fires.
“A lot of that work is taking place, but the key to that of course –you’ve got to get those fires under control and get the fires extinguished.”
The Red Cross has already collected more than $13-million worth of private donations.
Remember, you can listen live to NEWS 1130 anytime for the very latest on the wildfire situation.
