NEWS RELEASE Financial support programs for people displaced by extreme weather

The report Fairness in a Changing Climate: Ensuring disaster supports are accessible, equitable and adaptable is a case study of government’s response to the 2021 fires and floods that displaced thousands of people from their homes and communities, some to this day. [...] The Ombudsperson found unclear and confusing communication about these programs, unreasonable delays in providing support, a lack of flexibility in how supports are delivered, and a process that does not take into account the distinct needs of Indigenous evacuees as well as elderly people and people with physical and cognitive disabilities. [...] The province needs to step up, modernize these two programs and put additional resources in place to ensure people are treated fairly and equitably during extreme weather events.” The report notes that climate change is impacting the availability of insurance. [...] “Equity, timeliness, flexibility, accessibility and appropriate risk allocation must be at the forefront of this work.” The report emphasizes that the delivery of disaster supports needs to be proactive and centred on the needs of people, and it should consider the disproportionate and compounding impacts of disasters on individuals and communities. [...] The report makes 20 recommendations including that the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness: • support community-led ESS with timely and effective surge support for large-scale disasters, integrated professional mental health care and a reliable communications hub for evacuees • ensure reception centres are accessible, and supports are flexible and responsive to the needs of all.