Municipal Affairs
November 21, 2012

New Firefighting Equipment Headed to Avalon Fire Departments

Continuing the Provincial Government’s commitment to the municipal fire service, over $14,000 in funding has been approved for two fire departments on the Avalon Peninsula. Through the Provincial Firefighting Equipment Assistance Program, fire departments will receive this funding to purchase important equipment for their firefighters.

“The Provincial Government continues to focus on matters of public safety and this investment helps to further protect residents and volunteers alike,” said the Honourable Kevin O’Brien, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Minister Responsible for Fire and Emergency Services. “Modern equipment, such as paging systems and portable pumps, helps the women and men in community fire departments do their utmost to protect the lives and property of their neighbours. We are pleased to provide this support.”

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.

“It is essential for our volunteer firefighters to be equipped with the necessary equipment to assist them in their duties,” said the Honourable Keith Hutchings, Minister of Innovation, Business and Rural Development and MHA for Ferryland. “I am pleased with this investment and would like to commend the fire department for recognizing and taking advantage of the funding available to ensure they have modern equipment.”

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 funding provided by the Provincial Government helps ensure our firefighters are equipped with the necessary tools to respond when needed," said Kevin Parsons, MHA fore Cape St. Francis. "The firefighters in Logy Bay-Middle Cove-Outer Cove are committed to training and to protecting the community. This new portable pump will assist in combating any blaze that may threaten lives and property and I thank the minister for his continued commitment to safety."

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.

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2012 11 21                      3:40 p.m.