NLIS 1
June 26, 2006
(Municipal Affairs)

Minister announces $80,000 for fire services and fire prevention

Jack Byrne, Minister responsible for Fire and Emergency Services, has pledged $80,000 in support to the fire services sector of the province.

�The Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Fire Chiefs and Firefighters works for the betterment of fire departments and services throughout this province,� said Minister Byrne. �The Department of Municipal Affairs will continue to provide financial resources on behalf of the province while keeping in mind the great importance of all fire services and emergency preparedness investments.�

Government Services Minister Dianne Whelan, on behalf of Minister Byrne, made the announcement to the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Fire Chiefs and Firefighters (NLAFCF) at their annual convention.  The province will contribute $30,000 to the operating fund and a renewed commitment of $50,000 to the Learn Not to Burn fire prevention program. The NLAFCF represents volunteer fire chiefs and firefighters province-wide. Their convention was held at the Curling Club in St. John�s from June 23- 26.

Minister Byrne expressed his appreciation of the NLAFCF�s extensive work with children. �Working together we have a greater chance of making all children aware of the danger of fire through education in action. Fire prevention saves lives, and I consider the Learn Not to Burn investment of enormous significance to public education on the issue.�

The minister noted recent efforts to expand fire and emergency services throughout the province. These include three new positions for the Office of the Fire Commissioner, a newly mandated deputy minister responsible for developing a comprehensive approach to emergency preparedness within the provincial government, and expenditures in excess of $2 million to be spent on equipment, supplies, and training for rural departments around the province.

 �This latest funding is part of our ongoing effort to strengthen and enhance the fire and emergency services in our province,� said Minister Byrne. �This remains a high priority for my department and the entire provincial government.�

Media contact: John Tompkins, Communications, (709) 729-1983, 690-2498,
jtompkins@gov.nl.ca 

2006 06 26                                                        9:00 a.m.