Fire Departments in Bonavista Bay to Receive New Equipment

Through the Provincial Government’s Firefighting Equipment Assistance Program, fire departments in the Bonavista Bay region will receive approximately $15,000 to purchase important equipment for their firefighters.

“Public safety and the security of community firefighters remains a primary focus for the Provincial Government,” said the Honourable Kevin O’Brien, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Minister Responsible for Fire and Emergency Services. “Helping to equip these professionals with the modern tools required to do such dangerous work is just one of the ways we continue to bolster and support such an integral community service.”

Two area fire departments have been approved for new firefighting equipment, as outlined below.

Fire departments successful in receiving funding through the FES-NL program have applied for consideration with the support of their municipal councils and commit to cover their portion of the equipment through the previously established provincial/municipal cost share ratios.

“Firefighters know the dangers they face on a regular basis and go above and beyond in ensuring the safety of their friends and neighbours,” said Glen Little, MHA for Bonavista South. “I continue to be encouraged by our government’s focus on safety and I thank the minister for these funds to purchase new bunker gear for the firefighters in King’s Cove and area.”

Budget 2012: People and Prosperity maintains $1.7 million in annual funding for firefighting infrastructure in addition to a $500,000 annual investment in firefighting equipment.

“This investment in Main Point-Davidsville builds on the recent investments in the Bonavista North area and helps to augment the fire service in this region,” said Eli Cross, MHA for Bonavista North. “The women and men of the fire service put their lives on the line each time they respond to a call and I am pleased to be part of a government who continues to recognize the important work of our municipal volunteers.”

Since the creation of FES-NL in 2007, the Provincial Government has contributed more than $14.2 million towards new firefighting vehicles and in excess of $4 million for equipment, with a particular focus on personal protective equipment. Combined with the municipal contribution, more than $20 million in new equipment has been provided to community fire halls throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.

- 30 -

Media contacts:

2012 11 21             10:40 a.m.