Quebec residents demand action after feeling abandoned post-flooding
- Since the August flooding caused by Hurricane Debby, Quebec has received nearly 10,000 claims for assistance.
- Only a small percentage of these claims have been paid, leaving many residents feeling abandoned by officials.
- The slow processing of claims has led to growing frustration among flood victims relying on government support.
In August 2023, remnants of Hurricane Debby led to severe flooding across Quebec, particularly affecting Montreal, which received a record 150 millimeters of rain. This storm resulted in extensive damage, prompting residents to file claims for assistance. However, as of December 2023, the Quebec government had only processed a small fraction of the nearly 10,000 claims submitted, with payments made on fewer than 10 percent of them. This leave many flood victims feeling abandoned, especially in areas like Laval, where only 21 of over 2,100 claims were paid and only 39 of over 1,700 claims were acknowledged in Montreal’s South Shore region. The government has distributed about $24 million in total reimbursements but has faced substantial criticism for the slow response. Premier François Legault initially indicated that the disaster program would be expanded to assist flood victims, yet many residents found themselves ineligible, especially if their damages resulted from sewer backups not covered by private insurance. Residents like Janice Donnelly and Vanessa Lalonde reported significant financial losses yet have been denied assistance under the government program. For many, the lack of timely support and clear communication has exacerbated feelings of neglect and frustration, as the disaster program’s eligibility criteria appear rigid despite promises of increased aid. As the government processes claims and investigates ongoing cases, individuals continue to grapple with the aftermath of the storm without the support expected from their municipal and provincial leaders.