Municipal Affairs
December 21, 2012

New Equipment Headed to Fire Departments in Conception Bay North Region

Through the Provincial Government’s Firefighting Equipment Assistance Program, fire departments in the area of Conception Bay North will receive over $17,000 to purchase equipment for firefighters.

“The Provincial Government remains committed to enhancing fire services throughout Newfoundland and Labrador by making strategic investments to assist in purchasing vehicles, constructing and repairing fire halls, and purchasing needed equipment,” said the Honourable Kevin O’Brien, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Minister Responsible for Fire and Emergency Services. “Public safety and the security of community firefighters remains a priority for our government and we remain focused on supporting and bolstering such important community services.”

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.

“Our growing region continues to see great support for fire protection services and I am pleased the Provincial Government continues to build on the solid investments made in this area,” said the Honourable Jerome Kennedy, Minister of Natural Resources and MHA for Carbonear - Harbour Grace. “In addition to the recent arrival of a new pumper truck in Harbour Grace and a regional aerial truck positioned in Carbonear, firefighters will see their level of personal safety improved by these latest equipment investments.”

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.

“I am proud to support the efforts of fire departments throughout the Port de Grave area and continue to be impressed with their dedication and commitment,” said Glenn Littlejohn, MHA for Port de Grave. “These investments in communications and personal protective equipment will help ensure these firefighters are in the best possible position to respond when faced with the threat of fire and I thank the minister for his continued support.”

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 12 21                            3:10 p.m.