NDP MLA says that people in the Cowichan Valley will benefit from emergency operations centre funding

DUNCAN – New Democrat MLA Doug Routley says that new provincial emergency preparedness funding will help improve emergency operation centres, and better equip locals governments and First Nations in the Cowichan Valley to respond to emergencies and keep people safe.

“Here in the Cowichan Valley, people have seen firsthand how important it is to be prepared for extreme weather emergencies, whether flooding or forest fires. Local governments and First Nations are a big part of the response, and this investment is part of our commitment to ensure communities are prepared.”

Over $3.2 million in funding is being shared among 84 First Nations and local governments to help communities build or upgrade emergency operations centres (EOCs), purchase equipment, or enhance capacity through volunteer recruitment, retention and training.

The Cowichan Valley Regional District is receiving $125,000 in funding. With this grant, CVRD will build a mobile EOC trailer to support emergency responders onsite to enhance communication, interoperability, decision making and situational awareness.

Other projects being funded in the region are listed below:

  • Cowichan Tribes – $25,000 for Strengthening Cowichan Tribes’ EOC Capacity
  • Stz’uminus First Nation – $25,000 for EOC Capacity Development

Budget 2022 provides $2.1 billion to support communities in building back better from recent disasters, and to strengthen defences to make sure people across B.C. are protected from future disasters.

Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/27133