On Wednesday January 28, 2026, the federal government and the Halifax Regional Municipality announced an investment of $6.4 million to improve stormwater management within the Upper Bissett Run watershed to mitigate the risk of flooding. Following the announcement, Amanda Dean, Vice-President, Ontario and Atlantic, Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC), and Liam McGuinty, Vice-President, Federal Affairs, IBC, issued the following statements:
“IBC and its member companies welcome the joint $6.4 million investment by the Government of Canada, the Halifax Regional Municipality and Halifax Water to strengthen flood protection in the Upper Bissett Run watershed. This forward‑looking project will help protect residents from surface water, basement and backyard flooding – risks that are increasing as severe weather becomes more frequent. This investment is an important step toward reducing flood risk in Nova Scotia and reflects a growing recognition across all levels of government that resilient infrastructure is essential to resilient communities. IBC is grateful for the leadership shown by His Worship Mayor Andy Fillmore and the Halifax Regional Municipality in advancing this work.” – Amanda Dean, Vice-President, Atlantic & Ontario, IBC
“Yesterday’s announcement underscores the critical role of the Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund (DMAF) in supporting municipal adaptation projects across the country. As severe weather intensifies, proactive investments like this are vital to defending communities against floods and other climate‑related hazards. Insured losses from severe weather exceeded $2.4 billion in 2025, according to Catastrophe Indices and Quantification Inc., highlighting the urgency of strengthening Canada’s climate defences. Flooding remains one of the most frequent and costly natural hazards affecting Canadian homes. Measures that reduce damage from high‑intensity rainfall events help protect residents today while lowering long‑term financial risks for homeowners, businesses and public services.
IBC continues to encourage sustained federal investment in programs like DMAF, which enhance community resilience and deliver significant economy‑wide benefits. As the federal government noted in its announcement, every dollar invested in climate adaptation can return as much as $13 to $15 in benefits. IBC commends the federal government, Halifax Regional Municipality and Halifax Water for their leadership and commitment to protecting residents of Cole Harbour, and we look forward to continued collaboration on climate‑resilient infrastructure.” – Liam McGuinty, Vice-President, Federal Affairs, IBC
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