The Ontario government is investing over $16-million to support emergency management needs in communities and enhance local preparedness to address the complex challenges posed by oil and gas related issues.
This funding includes:
– $12.3 million to further support the Municipality of Chatham-Kent’s investigation, emergency management and recovery efforts following the Wheatley explosion in August 2021
– $3.8 million as part of the second year of Ontario’s Legacy Oil and Gas Wells Action Plan to help nine municipalities across southwestern Ontario enhance local emergency preparedness and risk prevention.
“Our government recognizes the significant and ongoing challenges that southwestern Ontario municipalities face in managing oil and gas related issues,” said Graydon Smith, Minister of Natural Resources, in a press release.
“We will continue to work alongside municipal partners to make progress under our Legacy Oil and Gas Wells Action Plan, assist in reducing local risks and strengthening emergency preparedness.”
Since 2021, the province has invested over $39-million to support investigation, recovery and monitoring activities in Chatham-Kent, including support for eligible businesses and residents.
This new funding will help cover emergency management expenses, site examinations and remediation, as well as site revitalization of the downtown core.
“The proactive management and prevention of oil and gas related issues are essential to ensuring public safety,” said Trevor Jones, Associate Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Response and MPP for Chatham-Kent—Leamington, in a press release.
“The investments announced today represent a key component of our government’s comprehensive plan to enhance Ontario’s readiness, resilience, and ability to respond effectively to any emergency.”
Under the Legacy Oil and Gas Wells Action Plan launched in 2023, the government is providing $5.8 million to municipalities in southwestern Ontario that are affected by oil and gas related issues.
“This funding is extremely important to the people of Wheatley, a strong community that has experienced so much over the last few years,” stated Mayor Darrin Canniff, in a press release.
“The province’s ongoing commitment to support communities living with the risks associated with oil and gas related issues is welcomed and further demonstrates the partnership the provincial government has forged with municipalities rising to this challenge.”
Funds have been used to purchase emergency response equipment, provide health and safety training to municipal staff and improve public education and awareness.
The province continues to make progress under the Action Plan and today’s funding advances this commitment to safeguarding communities and enhancing public safety, Provincial officials added.
