NDP MLA Nathan Cullen says that communities will be better prepared to support people during emergencies with new funding

SMITHERS ­–­ New Democrat MLA Nathan Cullen says that new funding for Emergency Support Services (ESS) will help keep people safe in the event of an emergency. More than 50 First Nations and local governments will receive a share of more than $1.9 million towards local emergency preparedness. 

“When an emergency strikes it’s incredibly important that there’s a plan in place to keep everyone safe,” said Nathan Cullen, MLA for Stikine. “This funding will help First Nations and local governments here in our region build their supports and services so people are better prepared during an emergency.”

A few local governments and First Nations will be receiving funding in Stikine

  • Smithers, with Telkwa – $50,0000 for Operational Readiness Development Project
  • Gitanyow Band – $25,000 for Gitanyow ESS Development
  • Kispiox Band Council – $25,000 for a Development Project
  • Sik-E-Dahk – $25,000 for Emergency Operations

This funding will support communities to build local capacity now to provide ESS when a disaster strikes. Governments will use funding for volunteer recruitment, retention and training, and the purchase of equipment.

Budget 2022 provides $2.1 billion to support the recovery of communities to build back better from recent disasters, and to strengthen defenses to make sure people and communities across B.C. are protected from future disasters.

Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2022EMBC0028-000718