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October 3, 2022
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the results of the provincial election in Quebec:
“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I would like to congratulate François Legault and the Coalition Avenir Québec on their re-election.
“I look forward to continuing to work with Premier Legault and the Government of Quebec to address issues of importance to Quebecers and all Canadians. This includes fostering the growth of the green economy, fighting climate change, finding solutions to labour shortages, making life more affordable, helping create new affordable housing, investing in infrastructure, and building a clean and prosperous future.
“Together, we will make Quebec, which we are so proud of, an even better place to live.”
October 4, 2022
Dartmouth, Nova Scotia
Atlantic Canadians and Quebecers are resilient. In the wake of Hurricane Fiona’s devastation, thousands are rebuilding their homes and communities, and businesses of all sizes are getting back on their feet. The Government of Canada will continue to respond to the immediate needs of people impacted by the storm and support the long-term recovery of impacted regions and local economies.
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the creation of the Hurricane Fiona Recovery Fund. The Fund will provide up to an additional $300 million over two years, starting this year, to help those impacted by the storm and to support long-term recovery efforts.
Building on the government’s ongoing response to Hurricane Fiona in Atlantic Canada and Eastern Quebec, the Fund will support recovery efforts such as:
- Helping local communities and businesses rebuild and recover more quickly from the impacts of Hurricane Fiona.
- Restoring the economic activity that local communities depend on by beginning to repair and rebuild critical infrastructure, including fishing wharves and small craft harbours that were damaged or destroyed by the storm. Repairs will ensure that the infrastructure is better able to withstand any future damage.
- Ensuring the safety of navigation and protecting marine wildlife.
The new Fund will provide support for costs that may not be covered by existing federal programs, including the Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements (DFAA). Through the DFAA, the federal government covers up to 90 per cent of eligible provincial expenses following a disaster, including providing transportation, emergency food, and shelter, and restoring or replacing uninsurable dwellings and items.
Recovering from the widespread impacts of Hurricane Fiona will require a collective effort. The new Hurricane Fiona Recovery Fund builds on the support the federal government has already announced, including deploying Canadian Armed Forces members and matching donations made to the Canadian Red Cross. We will keep working in partnership with provincial governments, municipal partners, and local First Nations communities to continue providing additional financial support to rebuild communities and the economy.
Quotes
“Our thoughts are with all Canadians dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Fiona. There is still much work to be done in the days and months ahead to clean up and rebuild, but I know Atlantic Canadians and Quebecers will continue to be there for each other, and so will the Government of Canada. This new Fund, announced today, will help people and local communities move forward on the path to recovery.”
“The people of Atlantic Canada and Eastern Quebec have already done so much to begin recovering from Fiona’s devastation. And now, they need our support to restart their economy. The new Hurricane Fiona Recovery Fund, and the existing Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements, will provide that much needed support. Together, we will help build back the lives and livelihoods that have been uprooted.”
“In tough times, Atlantic Canadians come together. Neighbours are helping neighbours, and crews have been working long hours to clear the debris off our streets and restore power to our homes. Our government is doing everything we can to help. This Fund is welcome news for our region, allowing our wharves, small businesses, and communities to get the financial assistance they need as we build back from Hurricane Fiona and get life back to normal.”
“My heart goes out to all the people in Atlantic Canada and Eastern Quebec dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Fiona. The Hurricane Fiona Recovery Fund will support those areas impacted by the storm through long-term recovery efforts, such as critical infrastructure and fishing wharves to help restore the local economy. As we begin to rebuild our communities, the Government of Canada will continue to be there to support Newfoundlanders in making sure you have a place to return to and call home. Having been on the ground and seen the devastation first-hand, I know how important it is for our local communities to get back on their feet.”
“Communities across Atlantic Canada and Eastern Quebec have pulled together in the wake of Hurricane Fiona and our government will be there to help them regain a sense of normality as quickly as possible. As we rebuild, we are committed to making our core infrastructure more resilient so that we can be better prepared for future natural disasters. We will continue working closely with our provincial partners as we help Atlantic Canadians and Quebecers get through this.”
“I have seen firsthand the heartbreaking damage caused by Hurricane Fiona, as well as the dedication and resilience of the people of les Îles-de-la-Madeleine and our neighbours in Atlantic Canada. We are helping people by extending GST/HST filing deadlines, and providing relief to impacted businesses and taxpayers, whenever possible. The Canada Revenue Agency strives to put people first, and this continues to be its priority.”
“Islanders are feeling the impacts of Fiona in everything they do and everywhere they go. I’ve seen the destruction that Fiona has brought to our homes, our businesses, and our communities. This $300 million Fund will go a long way to rebuild so much of what we’ve lost, including wharves and other infrastructure, and will help strengthen them to withstand future storms.”
“I’ve been hugely concerned about Hurricane Fiona’s impact. The scope of loss for harvesters in Atlantic Canada and Eastern Quebec has been tremendous, including gear loss and damage to small craft harbours. Today’s announcement is an important step in cleaning up the ocean, and starting repairs at affected harbours. We need to make sure these critical pieces of community infrastructure are safe and accessible to the people who rely on them, and to make them more resilient to future extreme weather events.”
“Hurricane Fiona hit us hard. People displaced, homes and businesses destroyed, memories lost. Newfoundlanders know the days ahead will not be easy. But we will get through this and rebuild.”
“The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency has always been there for Atlantic Canadians in times of need. Today, we announce the launch of the Hurricane Fiona Recovery Fund, an important step that will help Atlantic Canadians in their rebuilding efforts. We remain committed to working closely with businesses of all sizes, organizations, and communities who are dealing with the devastating impacts of Hurricane Fiona.”
“We know that for families, businesses, and municipalities, rebuilding after a disaster can seem like an insurmountable task – but we’re here to help relieve some pressure from the communities devastated by Hurricane Fiona. We don’t choose when a disaster will hit, but I know the courage and resilience of the people in Eastern Quebec and the Maritimes, and I know they will prevail. I am proud that the agency I’m overseeing contributes to this recovery fund.”
Quick Facts
- The Hurricane Fiona Recovery Fund will be coordinated by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, which will work with other federal departments and agencies, such as Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, and Transport Canada, to determine local needs and allocate funds accordingly.
- Immediately following Hurricane Fiona’s landfall, the federal government approved a request for federal assistance from the Government of Nova Scotia, and further requests for assistance from Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland and Labrador were also approved shortly after they were received.
- In response to these requests, the government continues to support provinces with their immediate needs. Since the storm, up to 850 Canadian Armed Forces members have been deployed to remove debris to assist in the restoration of transportation links and the power grid, as well as perform wellness checks in affected communities.
- The Government of Canada will also provide financial assistance to provincial governments through the Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements (DFAA). Through the DFAA, the government covers up to 90 per cent of eligible provincial expenses following a disaster, including:
- Evacuation, transportation, emergency food, shelter, and clothing;
- Repairs to public buildings and related equipment, roads, and bridges;
- Restoration or replacement of individuals’ uninsurable dwellings (principal residences only), personal furnishings, appliances, and clothing; and,
- Restoration of small businesses and farmsteads, including uninsurable buildings and equipment.
- On September 25, 2022, the Government of Canada announced a donation-matching program with the Canadian Red Cross to support those impacted by the storm. The government will continue to match donations Canadians and corporations make for the next 30 days from September 25, with the possibility of extension.
- Residents who have been impacted by Hurricane Fiona should register with the Canadian Red Cross by calling 1-800-863-6582 or online at www.redcross.ca/hurricanefiona
. - Canadians wishing to make a financial donation to help those impacted by Hurricane Fiona can do so online at www.redcross.ca, by calling 1-800-418-1111, or by texting FIONA to 20222 to make a $10 donation.
Associated Links
- Government of Canada Response to Hurricane Fiona
- Government of Canada providing assistance to Atlantic Canada with recovery from Hurricane Fiona
- Government of Canada and Canadian Red Cross establish donation-matching program to support Canadians impacted by Hurricane Fiona
- Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements
October 5, 2022
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on World Teachers’ Day:
“Today, on World Teachers’ Day, we recognize and honour the crucial role teachers and educators play in building better communities.
“During my time as a teacher, I saw firsthand the important work Canadian teachers do, often under challenging conditions. Today, I am launching the nomination period for the 2023 Prime Minister’s Awards for Teaching Excellence and Teaching Excellence in STEM and Prime Minister’s Awards for Excellence in Early Childhood Education. These awards are given to exceptional elementary and secondary school teachers and early childhood educators. I encourage Canadians to recognize an outstanding teacher or educator who has made a real difference in their community by nominating them for these awards.
“This year’s theme – The transformation of education begins with teachers – reminds us that teachers and educators deserve to work in a supportive environment, have access to professional development, and be empowered to be innovative and creative to ensure their students can succeed.
“From critical thinking to coding and literacy, educators are helping the next generation develop the skills they need to adapt to our rapidly changing world, succeed in tomorrow’s economy, and find solutions to future challenges. Teachers go above and beyond their basic job descriptions. On any given day, they serve as mentors, advocates, and counsellors to their pupils. Educators act as guides who inspire students of all ages to give the best of themselves while learning and growing as individuals.
“The Government of Canada continues to take meaningful action to ensure teachers and educators across the country have the tools they need and are able to work in a safe environment. We transferred an additional $100 million to provinces and territories in July as part of the Safe Return to Class Fund, building on our previous investment of $2 billion. Together, this funding is helping improve learning spaces, including air ventilation upgrades, and allowing for the purchase of personal protective equipment and cleaning supplies.
“Beyond our borders, the Government of Canada works with global partners and ministries of education around the world to ensure every classroom has a qualified, motivated, and well-supported teacher who can unleash children’s learning potential, including in crisis contexts.
“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I thank all teachers and educators for the incredible work they do and their adaptability every day on the job. Thanks to your dedication and commitment, you continue to change lives and communities for the better.”
October 5, 2022
Ottawa, Ontario
Yesterday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston in Halifax, Nova Scotia, to discuss ways the federal and provincial governments can continue to work together to help people rebuild and recover from Hurricane Fiona and its impacts.
The Prime Minister reiterated the Government of Canada’s commitment to keep working with provincial governments, municipal partners, and local First Nations communities to support recovery efforts and help rebuild communities, and highlighted federal support programs available, including through Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements and the new Hurricane Fiona Recovery Fund.
The Prime Minister and the Premier recognized the progress that has been made, but indicated that power and telecommunication outages remain a concern for many people and businesses. The two leaders discussed the support Canadian Armed Forces personnel are providing in the response and clean-up efforts.
The Prime Minister and the Premier also discussed other shared priorities, including growing the economy, creating jobs, and addressing the rising cost of living, as well as energy, health care, and the fight against climate change.
The leaders agreed to stay in close contact as recovery efforts continue.
Associated Links
- Government of Canada Response to Hurricane Fiona
- Rebuilding after Hurricane Fiona
- Prime Minister Justin Trudeau convenes the second Incident Response Group meeting to discuss Hurricane Fiona
- Government of Canada providing assistance to Atlantic Canada with recovery from Hurricane Fiona
- Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements (DFAA)
Statement by the Prime Minister on Yom Kippur
October 4, 2022
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on Yom Kippur:
“At sunset today, Jewish communities in Canada and around the world will observe the beginning of Yom Kippur, also known as the Day of Atonement.
“Yom Kippur, which marks the end of the Ten Days of Awe, is the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. It is a time for self-reflection, repentance, and renewal, and an opportunity to look to the year ahead with hope, purpose, and resolve. To honour this holiday, families and loved ones will gather to fast, pray, and seek forgiveness.
“For all of us, today is a chance to recognize the important contributions Jewish Canadians have made – and continue to make – to shape a stronger, more resilient, and inclusive country.
“On behalf of our family, Sophie and I extend our best wishes to Jewish communities here in Canada and abroad celebrating this holy day.
“G’mar Chatima Tova.”
October 4, 2022
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the 1,000th day since the egregious downing of Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752:
“One thousand days ago today, the Iranian regime unlawfully and horrifically shot down passenger Flight PS752, cutting short the lives of the 176 innocent people on board – including 55 Canadians, 30 permanent residents, and a total of 138 people en route to Canada. They were mothers, fathers, sons, daughters, educators, and students – and most of all, they were loved.
“In the 1,000 days since, people across Canada have mourned their loved ones. As Canadians, we mourn with them. Yesterday, I met with the families of the victims of PS752 to express my deepest condolences. In the wake of this crime, Canada has, and will continue to, support them. We opened new pathways to permanent residency for families of survivors, provided mental health supports, and continue to reaffirm Canada’s steadfast commitment to holding the Iranian regime responsible for its horrific actions.
“Canada and its Coordination Group partners are committed to holding Iran accountable, in accordance with international law. At the International Civil Aviation Organization, Canada continues to advance the Safer Skies Initiative and to address gaps in the accident investigation process to make sure this never happens again. We remain relentless in our pursuit of justice for the families of these victims, and we will stop at nothing to ensure the regime is held accountable.
“Today, the regime continues to crack down on courageous Iranian women protesting the tragic killing of Mahsa Amini at the hands of Iran’s so-called ‘morality police.’ Dozens of protesters have been killed. Once again, the Iranian regime is demonstrating its blatant disregard for human rights and human life. Canada unequivocally stands with the brave women who are marching in the streets of Iran and in the streets of cities right around the world in solidarity.
“This unacceptable pattern of gross and systematic human rights violations and brutal murders must end. That’s why yesterday, we imposed new sanctions against Iran by targeting 34 individuals and entities. This includes the Iranian regime’s ‘morality police’ and senior members of the regime, including in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. These sanctions build on our existing sanctions and measures – some of the toughest any country has taken against Iran. They also complement the fact that Canada recognizes Iran as a State supporter of terrorism.
“Today, we remember the innocent victims of PS752, and we stand with all those defending human rights here at home and around the world. The Iranian regime will be held accountable for its horrific actions.”
