Feds Refusing to Provide Disaster Compensation if Province Builds Housing in Flood Areas of Greenbelt

Federal environment minister expressing concern about the province's plan to cut up the Greenbelt.

Canada's environment minister says the federal government will not provide disaster compensation in flood-prone areas where the province deliberately allows housing to be built. 

Steven Guilbeault made the comment earlier today, noting that he's "very worried" about Premier Doug Ford's plan to open up the Greenbelt to development. 

The province plans to remove land from 15 different parts of the Greenbelt in an effort to build 50,000 homes in the area and add acres elsewhere. 

Guilbeault says some of the lands where housing or commercial development is being proposed are in low-lying areas that are subject to flooding. 

Premier Doug Ford has fired back, saying Guilbeault needs to "do his research" and developers are responsible for making sure they protect developments on floodplains. 

We reached out to Housing Minister Steve Clark for comment, and a spokesperson sent the following reply: 

"Like the rest of the country, Ontario is in a housing supply crisis, and we are taking action and considering every possible option to get more homes built faster so more Ontarians can find and afford a place to call home.  

The federal government should do its research, as Ontario has not received any financial assistance for a flood in over 15 years, while other provinces have received billions of dollars in funding. In fact, Ontario rarely receives any funding under the federal government’s Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements.

Undertaking natural hazard mitigation is a standard part of any development and Ontario’s preventative approach of directing development away from floodplains and other hazardous areas is highly effective. We continue to help our municipal partners plan for responsible growth and help build housing where it makes sense, while protecting the environment, so Ontario can continue to be the best place to live, work, and prosper. "