The Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Fire
Services (NLAFS) will benefit from a number of Provincial Government
initiatives announced at the association�s annual convention in Corner
Brook recently.
The Honourable Jack Byrne, Minister of Municipal
Affairs, announced $108,000 in funding to support a multitude of
programs and initiatives to strengthen fire protection services, and to
address concerns raised by volunteer firefighters in the province. The
investment also includes the implementation of a pilot program and
enhanced accidental death coverage.
"Our government�s core focus to strengthening fire
services within our province is evident in this funding," said Minister
Byrne. "The $108,000 in direct funding will benefit administrative,
program, and training initiatives and represents an important investment
in fire services on behalf of the Provincial Government."
Minister Byrne announced in his keynote address to the
association the Provincial Government�s commitment to a range of issues
previously raised by the association. These initiatives include
increases in operating grants, program funding and supplementary
insurance coverage for volunteer firefighters. Among the 2007-08
initiatives and programs:
$41,000 annual operating grant (increase of
$11,000 from 2006);
$61,000 annual operating grant for the Learn
Not to Burn Program (increase of $11,000 from 2006);
$6,500 to aid in the relocation of the NLAFS
administrative office;
The implementation of a pilot program for
municipal compensation when fire departments respond outside
their own municipal boundaries;
Funding provision for fire departments that
wish to participate in regional two-day training programs (to be
administered through Fire and Emergency Services � Newfoundland
and Labrador);
Accidental death coverage
from $100,000 to $200,000; and,
The issuance of volunteer fire service licence
plates in fall 2007.
"We are totally delighted by government�s recommitment
of essential funding for our association in 2007-08," says Richard
Murphy, president of the NLAFS. Mr. Murphy went on to say that his
association and the Provincial Government have enjoyed a very positive
and productive relationship in recent years. "Our entire membership is
grateful for the Provincial Government�s support, and we look forward to
advancing all of our programs and collective initiatives in the coming
months."
"Firefighters provide an indispensable service to the
many towns and communities in the province, and the Provincial
Government remains committed to their continued success," added Minister
Byrne. "We are proud to support the men and women who have the strength
and courage to protect our communities and this commitment will allow
their association to better enable their members to do so."
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