The Canadian military is ready to assist with relief efforts for the victims of Hurricane Dorian. Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke Member of Parliament, Cheryl Gallant, says thanks to previous strategic investments in the Canadian Armed Forces, the Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) has the ability to put boots on the ground with the help of Chinook Tactical 450 Helicopter Squadron from Garrison Petawawa. Prior to acquiring these aircrafts, Gallant says Canada had to rely on borrowed American aircraft or rented Russian aircraft to deploy troops on disaster assistance, humanitarian aide, and military operations. Hurricane Dorian is the most powerful storm to hit the Bahamas in recorded history, with winds up to 295 km/h and torrential rain. As many as 13,000 houses may have been severely damaged or destroyed in the Bahamas. Extensive flooding has also contaminated wells with saltwater, creating an urgent need for clean water.
Pictured: MP Gallant at the ceremony marking the arrival of the Chinook Helicopters at Garrison Petawawa in June 2013
