Prime Minister Trudeau visits storm damaged Québec islands, promises aid for region

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau visited Québec’s Iles-de-la-Madeleine today, promising federal support for the archipelago hammered by post-tropical storm Fiona last weekend.

Trudeau met with acting mayor Gaetan Richard and with fishers, seniors and small business owners.

He says the federal government will partner with Québec to help people affected by the storm, which made landfall and brought hurricane-force winds.

Accompanied by National Revenue Minister Diane Lebouthillier, who represents the region in Parliament, Trudeau said Canada needs to better adapt its infrastructure to the changing climate, which is increasing the likelihood of devastating storms.

Asked why his government is approving offshore oil projects at a time when climate change is making itself felt, Trudeau said regions like the Iles-de-la-Madeleine still depend on fossil fuels.

He says all new fossil fuel projects in the country – including the recently approved multi billion-dollar Equinor offshore oil project in Newfoundland and Labrador – must fit into the country’s plan to have net-zero emissions by 2050.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 29, 2022.