Today, the Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs and the Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, announced that the Provincial Government will offer relocation assistance to residents of Mud Lake.
Assistance is being extended as a result of previous and potential flooding events which have been an ongoing concern for some residents. The decision to relocate or remain in the community will be up to each household.
Due to the environmental circumstances and geographic location of the community of Mud Lake, the 75 per cent threshold for community support, and net savings to government calculation will not be required. Residency requirements for relocation assistance funding amounts and ownership of properties will be determined in a manner consistent with the policy.
The amount of financial assistance payable to Permanent Residential Property Owners will be determined by the number of Permanent Residents living in the household in accordance with the following table:
| # of Permanent Residential Property Owners and their minor dependents per household | Total Household Relocation Assistance |
| 1 | $250,000 |
| 2 | $260,000 |
| 3 or more | $270,000 |
Residents who wish to avail of relocation assistance, can contact Jacob Kimball, Manager of Legislation, at jacobkimball@gov.nl.ca or 709-729-5473 for further information.
Quotes
“We have heard concerns from the people of Mud Lake who have experienced flooding in the past, and the potential risks that may occur in the future. Residents have been seeking a resolution and we are pleased to provide this assistance to address the issues they have raised.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs
“We know that Northern and Indigenous communities are at greater risk from climate change impacts, which may increase flooding risks. We have made great progress in recent years through flood risk mapping and a monitoring system to assist residents in the area to prepare for potential higher water levels. Valuable information has been collected and residents have sought a resolution to their concerns. This relocation assistance will help to alleviate their concerns about future environmental impacts.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister of Environment and Climate Change
“This is a significant step for the people of Mud Lake. Given the history of flooding in the community, this shows our commitment to provide residents with the peace of mind to relocate if they choose. I look forward to continue working with the residents on this important issue.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation
Minister Responsible for Labrador Affairs
“Today’s announcement of financial support for the residents of Mud Lake and vicinity is welcome news for those who have felt they were in harm’s way. I thank the Provincial Government for responding to my requests for assistance. I also appreciate the commitment to evaluate how those who remain in this beautiful and historic community could function as a viable social enterprise.”
Perry Trimper
MHA for Lake Melville
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Media contacts
Lynn Robinson
Municipal and Provincial Affairs
Environment and Climate Change
709-729-5449, 694-9466
lynnrobinson@gov.nl.ca
Allan Bock
Labrador Affairs Secretariat
709-896-7935, 899-6446
allanbock@gov.nl.ca