Municipal Affairs
October 2, 2009

Humber Valley to Receive Two New Fire Trucks

The Towns of Deer Lake and Howley will receive new fire trucks through the 2009-10 Municipal Capital Works Program.

The Honourable Dianne Whalen, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Minister Responsible for Fire and Emergency Services-Newfoundland and Labrador, committed over $400,000 in Provincial Government funding towards the acquisition of two new pumper trucks in these communities.

"We are pleased to strengthen fire protection services for the people in the Humber Valley through this investment," said Minister Whalen. "Effective fire protection is an essential municipal service, and our government continues to invest strategically in this regard."

The Provincial Government allocated $1.7 million in Budget 2009: Building on Our Strong Foundation for the purchase of new fire equipment. The Town of Deer Lake and the province will cost share the $270,000 pumper truck utilizing an 80/20 cost share ratio. The Town of Howley will receive their $240,000 pumper truck utilizing a 90/10 cost share ratio. The total provincial contribution to the trucks is $412,885.

"These state of the art fire trucks are a great addition to the fire protection services in my district" said Darryl Kelly, MHA for the District of Humber Valley. "I am very appreciative of the support from Minister Whalen and her staff in making this a reality. Both the towns of Deer Lake and Howley have been in need of a new fire truck for some time and this announcement will enable them to provide the essential fire protection services the towns require."

Thus far in 2009, Fire and Emergency Services-Newfoundland and Labrador approved close to $1 million in fire equipment throughout the province, including trucks, pumps and personal protective equipment.

"Our government understands the importance of new fire protection equipment," said Minister Whalen. "We will continue to evaluate applications and allocate funding in areas with the greatest need. Providing firefighters the necessary equipment can significantly lessen the effects of a fire if it happens. Enhanced fire protection in many ways saves lives, and with Fire Prevention Week 2009 only days away we must also remember that fire prevention measures are very important."

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2009 10 02                      11:20 a.m.