The Provincial Government announced it will contribute $215,044 toward the purchase of a new fire pumper for the Town of Irishtown-Summerside.

"Today�s announcement is one of many examples how our government is ensuring fire departments across the province have the proper equipment and supports to provide firefighting services," said the Honourable Dave Denine, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Minister Responsible for Fire and Emergency Services � Newfoundland and Labrador. "Irishtown-Summerside will now replace an aging truck with a state-of-the-art machine to better support fire suppression services in the area."

The Provincial Government will contribute funding through the 2008-09 Municipal Capital Works Program. The trucks will be cost-shared at a 90/10 ratio between the province and the municipalities. The total project cost is $250,000.

"I am quite pleased to be able to announce the replacement of the pumper truck and no doubt all residents, including the H.I.S. Fire and Rescue, will acknowledge this new unit will enhance the fire service to their towns," said Terry Loder, MHA for Bay of Islands. "This is another example of the teamwork and leadership we have within the Williams Government."

The Provincial Government committed $1.7 million towards fire fighting equipment throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. The funding presented in Budget 2008 will contribute to enhancing fire services throughout the province by contributing to projects such as fire truck acquisitions, equipment purchases and fire hall construction and repairs.

- 30 -

Media contact:
Bradley Power
Public Relations Specialist
Fire and Emergency Services � Newfoundland and Labrador
709-729-0857, 697-5216
BradleyPower@gov.nl.ca