“The paltry amount of funding announced by the Government today toward the recovery of flood hit rural Canterbury won’t even begin to scratch the surface,” National Party MP for Selwyn Nicola Grigg says.

“I support the decision to declare the flooding in Canterbury a medium scale adverse event, but the Government needs to realise the extent of the damage and impact on the communities down here.

“Action from the Government is needed right now. As bad as the images on the TV are, it is far worse on the ground.

“I have been here in the community since the rain began and have seen first-hand the devastation caused to people and property across the district. Our rural communities will need a momentous recovery plan from this Government and today’s announcement falls short.

“Roads are continuing to close, water is still unsafe to drink, and there are still disruptions that are causing unsafe travel. There is so much work to do and the Government must front up.

“Yesterday I called for the Government to activate Enhanced Taskforce Green in order to help with clean up and recovery. Additionally what is needed on farms is a skilled workforce capable of operating machinery and managing livestock.

“I would like to acknowledge Federated Farmers for the job they are doing in assessing the need and coordinating the deployment of urgent assistance to our farmers.

 “The Government need to pull all levers available, including Defence Force personnel and equipment,” Ms Grigg says.