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The Canadian Press

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Spring flood waters have long since receded in New Brunswick, but a flood of assistance claims is delaying cheques and leaving some residents unable to return home.

David Long of Oromocto has been living on his 10-metre boat since the St. John River spilled its banks in April and destroyed virtually everything on the first floor of his home. He said he wants to do repairs before winter, but he just had the first visit from an adjuster about a week ago.

Ernie MacGillivray, director of the New Brunswick Emergency Measures Organization, said he expects about 750 families will be eligible for assistance, and about half have been processed so far.

He said all claims should be processed by the end of August, but he expects some will appeal the amount offered.

MacGillivray said the province paid out more than $1 million in advance payments so that people could get the work started.