Provincial Government Celebrates New Fire Truck for Hampden

Residents of Hampden were on hand today in the west coast community, as a new pumper truck was delivered to the region. The Honourable Kevin O’Brien, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Minister Responsible for Fire and Emergency Services, was joined by Humber Valley MHA Darryl Kelly, Mayor Jerry Martin of Hampden and members of both the municipal council and volunteer fire department to welcome the new vehicle to the community.

“Our government made a commitment to Hampden to fund 90 per cent of the purchase of a new firefighting vehicle in 2010 and it was my pleasure to deliver on that promise today,” said Minister O’Brien. “While a new truck certainly helps to improve firefighting capabilities in the community and region, it is the dedicated work of the volunteer firefighters and municipal officials that help to keep our towns and regions safe and protected in times of emergency.”

The pumper truck, valued at approximately $220,000, is the result of a partnership between the Provincial Government and the Town of Hampden under the 90/10 cost-shared ratio established under the Municipal Capital Works program. The new fire truck is a two-door pumper with a 300 horsepower diesel engine. The vehicle contains a class A foam system, a 830 gallon water tank and was built in Centerville, New Brunswick by Metalfab.

“Today is a wonderful day for residents of this community and I am glad so many of them were able to join us for this event,” noted MHA Kelly. “This region is full of committed individuals who place a high priority on safety and I am delighted the Provincial Government has been able to partner with this community to help provide such a critical service.”

“For the community of Hampden, this new vehicle represents a significant advancement in first response capabilities and offers the latest technology in firefighting,” said Mayor Martin. “Our local firefighters now have improved capabilities to safely and effectively battle any blaze that may occur. We certainly appreciate the efforts of the Provincial Government and are pleased to have partnered together in the interest of public safety.”

Budget 2011 Standing Strong: For Prosperity. For Our Future. For Newfoundland and Labrador. provides for a historic investment in the municipal fire service. While continuing a $1 million commitment to fund equipment needs, an unprecedented $3.9 million has been allocated for new firefighting vehicles throughout the province in the coming year.

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2011 05 20                                                                             3:30 p.m.