Last week's massive flooding in Calgary has forced the Conservative Party of Canada to put off a policy convention planned for this weekend.
“After being in discussions with various authorities regarding the situation, it became clear that holding the national convention at this time would not be in the best interests of the people of Calgary,” party president John Walsh said in a Saturday statement.
“At this time the focus needs to be on the safety of Calgarians, and a convention our size with the security it entails could mean taking first responders away from the work they are doing.
"As well, the focus will soon shift to the rebuilding that needs to follow and with Stampede starting soon, a major economic driver for the region, we do not want our convention to interfere in the work that needs to be done to ensure that important event happens.”
Conservative delegates were scheduled to arrive at downtown's Telus Convention Centre on Thursday for opening ceremonies.
The building was closed when the City of Calgary declared a state of emergency. There were electrical issues but no water damage.
The party's national council has yet to announce a new convention date.
-Andrew Thomson
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