EAST SELKIRK—The province will provide up to $250,000 in disaster assistance to farmers and rural municipalities in response to damage caused by the Aug. 5 tornado that went through regions of Eastman, Premier Gary Doer announced here today.

 

“We are working in partnership with local governments and affected departments to ensure that everyone and everything gets back to normal in the affected areas as soon as possible,” said Doer.

 

The one-time assistance is intended to help with such costs as debris removal and response costs to municipalities.  Claims will be considered from individuals, small businesses and municipal governments. The funding will help cover damage costs that do not qualify for conventional disaster financial assistance.

 

A damage assessment was undertaken by the Manitoba Emergency Measures Organization for sites in the rural municipalities of Alexander and St. Clements.