Ministry clarifies 2017 flood victims claims process

The Quebec Ministry of Public Security (MSP) has issued clarifications to certain information about the financial assistance paid to flood victims in the Estrie region so far.

In a communiqué released Tuesday the Ministry says, “First of all, it should be noted that all of the victims whose claims were deemed eligible have received at least one payment to help with renovations. The files may be very advanced, but are not necessarily closed. They remain open for the victims to make other claims.”

As of February 13, $24,000 had been distributed to the victims in the Estrie region, who were then able to undertake or complete their renovation work. It should be noted that four complaint files have been opened in the region.

The MSP also wishes to point out that the financial assistance program is based on claims, so a file is recognized as being "closed" only when all work has been completed and the person has been reimbursed the last sum to which they are entitled.

In addition, spring 2017 flood financial assistance files are still considered as "active" or "open" because all renovation or demolition work has not yet been completed or all supporting documents have not yet been provided to the MSP.

The Ministry is also reminding claimants that, throughout the request for financial assistance process, cash advances can be made at different times as the file moves forward. These advances can total up to 90 per cent of eligible costs, the remaining 10 per cent being paid upon receipt of the last bills.

In the spring of 2017 flooding affected more than 5,300 residences throughout 292 municipalities in 15 regions of Quebec. The flooding also forced the evacuation of more than 4,000 people and the closure of several roads.

So far, some $120 million in compensation has been paid out to flood victims in the context of the specific financial assistance program for floods that occurred between April 5 and May 16, 2017 in Quebec municipalities.