Deputy Premier to Tour Hard-hit Areas of Cape Breton

Deputy Premier Frank Corbett will tour some of the areas of Cape Breton today, Dec. 17, hardest hit by storm damage during the last two days. He will be joined by MLA Allan MacMaster.

"It is extremely difficult on people when their lives are disrupted by severe weather," said Mr. Corbett. "I want to see first-hand the damage that's been caused and the extensive work that is being done to get life back to normal as quickly as possible."

A severe storm that brought about 170 mm of rain to parts of Cape Breton and hurricane-force gusts to areas of the Annapolis Valley, caused significant flooding, wind and road damage earlier this week.

The deputy premier will fly over Cape Breton to survey the damage. He will also visit the Margaree Valley area to see some of the worst flooding and road and bridge damage.

Earlier in the week, Ramona Jennex, Minister of Emergency Management, visited the Annapolis Valley to survey the damage.

Efforts to reopen roads, restore services, and provide as much comfort as possible in difficult circumstances are continuing across the province. Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal crews continue to work around the clock to repair the roads and bridges that remain closed in Cape Breton. Power was restored to all area of the province late Thursday, Dec. 16.

"Everyone has worked together to make life better as quickly as possible for Nova Scotians affected by this extreme weather," said Mr. Corbett. "Again I thank Nova Scotians, first responders, road workers and emergency managers for their commitment to safety and to helping each other through these difficult times."