Premier and Minister to visit Hay River and Kátł’odeeche First Nation to observe damage

Premier Caroline Cochrane and Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs Shane Thompson will visit the Town of Hay River and the Kátł’odeeche First Nation on Wednesday May 18, 2022. This will be an opportunity to meet with community leadership and get a first-hand account of the damage to homes, businesses, and other infrastructure in the area caused by recent flooding.

The invitation to visit the area was extended by Mayor Kandis Jameson and Chief April Martel. The Premier and Minister will visit various sites in the area and meet directly with community leadership to discuss next steps in the flood recovery efforts.

Media are invited to attend a media availability with Premier Cochrane and Minister Thompson on Wednesday May 18th, 2022 at 4:30pm at the Entrance to Fisherman’s Wharf Pavilion in Hay River.

To confirm attendance please email PressSecretary@gov.nt.ca by 12:00pm on May 18th. If media cannot attend in person, please inform Cabinet Communications of your interest and alternate options for participation will be explored.

Quote(s)

“The impact the historic flooding in the South Slave is going to be felt for a long time. Recovering from such devastating natural disasters takes time, strength, and patience. I know this won’t be easy for many, but as leaders it’s important you know we are going to do everything we possibly can to support you through these coming weeks and months as you work to rebuild your lives.”

– Caroline Cochrane, Premier of the Northwest Territories

“I know that this is a very difficult time for residents of Hay River and Kátł’odeeche First Nation. For many, the past week has been the worst period of their lives. The coming weeks and months are also going to be stressful and emotional, as the recovery work begins. The repairs and rebuilding required after a flood of this magnitude are going to take time, and we ask for your patience as our government works to support the Town, the First Nation, and residents in those efforts.”

– Shane Thompson, Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs

Related links

• To view the most up to date information from the Town of Hay River visit https://hayriver.com/breakup/
• To view the most up to date information about the Government of the Northwest Territories’ response to flooding in the NWT visit https://www.gov.nt.ca/en/public-safety

For media requests, please contact:

Jay Boast
Senior Communications and Planning Officer
Department of Municipal and Community Affairs
Government of the Northwest Territories
Jay_Boast@gov.nt.ca
(867) 767-9162 ext. 21044

NT5