Today marks 4 years since Hurricane Fiona devastated the southwest coast of Newfoundland and Labrador.
Hurricane Fiona changed the lives of many throughout Burgeo – La Poile. Homes were destroyed, communities suffered severe damage, and the life of a valued community member was tragically lost.
Four years later, we remember those who were impacted and the strength and resilience shown by communities across the region.
Today, I think about Thelma, her family, and her many friends as they honour her memory. Our thoughts and prayers remain with you, today and always.
I also hold in my thoughts the many families and individuals who lost so much on that tragic day, as their homes, belongings, and cherished possessions were lost to the sea.
I want to once again recognize and thank everyone who was involved in the response effort during the hurricane and in the days that followed. Many of these people were deeply impacted by what they witnessed and experienced, and their dedication and service will not be forgotten.
In times of loss and tragedy, the people of the southwest coast and Newfoundland and Labrador always come together. One of our greatest strengths is our willingness to put up our hand up and help our neighbours when they need it most.
When governments, the Canadian Red Cross, the Canadian Armed Forces, community groups, businesses, volunteers, community members, and so many more came together to offer assistance in whatever way was needed, it shone a light during one of the darkest days in our history. We are a resilient and strong people here on the southwest coast. While Fiona may have changed our communities forever, it has not shaken the bonds that hold our communities together.
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