Funding Provided for Fire Protection
Equipment in Bonavista North and Bonavista South

An investment of $43,700 will provide enhanced firefighter protection for communities in the Bonavista Bay region.

The Honourable Kevin O’Brien, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Minister Responsible for Fire and Emergency Services, today announced funding for fire departments in Lethbridge and area, Lumsden, Main Point - Davidsville, Musgrave Harbour, and Trinity Bay North. The funding, which will provide for personal protective gear and equipment, is administered through Fire and Emergency Services – Newfoundland and Labrador.

“Our government has a strong record of partnering with our municipalities to assist our residents in receiving much needed services,” said Minister O’Brien. “Once again we are pleased to join with our municipal counterparts to provide the members of our volunteer fire service with the tools required to protect the residents of Newfoundland and Labrador.”

“Volunteers are the backbone of our communities and there is no other group or organization that brings more commitment, dedication and professionalism than the members of our fire departments,” said the Honourable Roger Fitzgerald, MHA for Bonavista South. “I am delighted to see this funding will help provide local firefighters with the necessary equipment to provide an invaluable service to residents.”

“I’m pleased to see this funding approved for the communities of Lumsden, Musgrave Harbour, and Main Point - Davidsville,” said the Honourable Harry Harding, Minister of Government Services and MHA for Bonavista North. “This new equipment will not only enhance the safety and protective capabilities of their firefighters, but will also provide a more effective and efficient fire protection service for all area residents.”

Budget 2010: The Right Investments – for Our Children and Our Future doubled the investment in firefighting equipment from $500,000 to $1 million dollars, while also increasing expenditures on firefighting vehicles to a total of $2.5 million. Funding for this commitment will be shared between the Provincial Government and the respective communities under the 90/10 cost-shared ration established through the Municipal Capital Works Program.

- 30 -

Media contacts:

2011 02 21             10:45 a.m.