Statement on BC Flooding and Remembering Jan Rustad

My heart goes out to the families and communities affected by the extreme flooding last week in British Columbia. This 100-year flood brought catastrophic damage, laying bare the shortcomings in our current system. As climate change worsens, this will happen not every 100 years, but every 10 – or less. We need to invest in adaptation and mitigation against climate change, so we are better prepared in the future. The inclusion of a National Adaptation Strategy in the Throne Speech a significant step forward. 

It is also with great sadness that I inform the House of the passing of Jan Rustad of Kaleden, British Columbia.  Jan was well known and considered by many to be the global expert on rotary wing advanced flying techniques. Jan trained many pilots from the Canadian Armed forces, RCMP and from many other countries. Known as skilled, patient and humble, Jan Rustad will be missed by his family and several generations of helicopter pilots from around the world. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.