Government Staff in Meat Cove to Plan Next Steps

Assessments by highway engineers show that a temporary bridge will need to be put in place to restore access to Meat Cove.

A recent storm damaged bridges and roads, isolating local residents and visitors. It is expected to take a least seven days to install a temporary bridge.

"This is a very challenging situation for Meat Cove residents and campers and I want to offer assurances that we are doing all we can to address their needs and to re-establish access as quickly as possible," said Ramona Jennex, Minister Responsible for Emergency Management. "Government staff and first responders are now on the scene planning the next steps."

Deputy Premier Frank Corbett and government representatives attended a community information session with residents and campers who are not able to leave the area. Officials from the Emergency Management Office are working with RCMP and others to ensure those in the community have access to emergency services and supplies, as well as options to allow campers to leave the area, if required.

Transportation, by boat, out of the area is available for those unable, or who do not wish, to wait until the repairs are made to Salmon River and other bridges. Emergency managers and partners will work with campers to connect them with transportation out of the area.

Emergency managers plan to work with area residents to determine, and meet, their needs. Provisions and supplies, including food and water, will be transported by boat into the area until road access is reestablished.

The Meat Cove Community Centre has been available for campers' use since yesterday. Hot meals are being there and at the campground restaurant.

The Salmon River Bridge will need to be repaired to allow heavy equipment access to the other four damage sites beyond the bridge.

As well as staff from the Emergency Management Office and RCMP, personnel from Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal, Emergency Health Services and others are in the Meat Cove area to provide support services and co-ordinate repairs.

People are encouraged to report damages to their primary residence caused by Saturday's rain storm to the Emergency Management Office by calling 1-866-424-5620.