Communities Share Services for Fire Protection

Community discussions in two areas of the province have resulted in shared fire protection services. Steady Brook and Little Rapids have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to share fire protection services on the west coast, while the communities of Cavendish and Whiteway have combined the services of two former fire departments to function as the new Trinity South Central Fire Department.

“In previous emergencies, we have seen that boundaries between communities fall to the wayside and neighbours help neighbours to ensure the safety and security of residents,” said the Honourable Kevin O’Brien, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Minister Responsible for Fire and Emergency Services. “Officials in my department have been engaged with municipalities throughout the province in assessing community fire services and assisting local governments to determine the best way forward. I am pleased to see such progressive action being taken by our municipal councils, local service district committees, and fire departments in recognizing the need to improve fire protection services for residents.”

The combined service for Steady Brook-Little Rapids will train and operate as one fire department within the two existing fire halls to ensure adequate response coverage for the communities. Administration, financing, and management of the service will be undertaken by a committee of representatives from both communities. The new Trinity South Central Fire Department now functions from one fire hall, bringing together the firefighters from the two former departments to ensure a full complement of members for emergency response. Administration and budgetary efforts will be shared between the communities of Cavendish and Whiteway through a representative committee.

“Fire protection is the responsibility of local governments and communities across the province need to take a close look at the service they provide to ensure they are efficient, effective, and sustainable,” noted Minister O’Brien. “The councils and committees of Little Rapids, Steady Brook, Cavendish and Whiteway are to be commended for taking the necessary action to ensure everyone is in the best possible position to respond to the next fire or large scale emergency.”

Budget 2011 Standing Strong: For Prosperity. For Our Future. For Newfoundland and Labrador includes a historic investment in fire protection services of $4.9 million to help modernize the municipal firefighting fleet, advance equipment requirements, and assist in bolstering fire department operations throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.

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Media contact:
Cheryl Gullage
Public Relations Specialist
Fire and Emergency Services – Newfoundland and Labrador
709-729-0857, 631-9962
CherylGullage@gov.nl.ca

2011 12 07                          11:05 a.m.