Safeguarding Families and Communities

Port au Port Region Formalizes Regional Fire Protection Services Agreement

The municipalities of Port au Port West-Aguathuna-Felix Cove and Port au Port East have formalized an agreement which will support the long-term provision of fire protection services for residents in the region. The regionalization of fire services agreement includes support for both the towns of Port au Port West-Aguathuna-Felix Cove and Port au Port East, as well as Fox Island River-Point au Mal, Boswarlos and Campbell’s Creek.

“As a government, we have been actively engaged in supporting municipalities and local service districts that wish to move towards a regional fire service. In many cases, significant enhancements to public safety can be achieved. Residents benefit when fire protection services are developed and delivered effectively and the Port au Port region is commended for formalizing this vital municipal service for the benefit of its respective communities.”
- The Honourable Steve Kent, Minister of Municipal and Intergovernmental Affairs

The Regional Fire Department will have one Fire Chief and one Deputy Chief. The department will be governed by the council of Port au Port West-Aguathuna-Felix Cove and the council of Port au Port East. Each council will appoint a Regional Fire Department Liaison as a point of contact for their respective council.

“I am pleased to see this level of cooperation from communities. Through this new partnership, residents throughout the region will benefit from enhanced fire services, sharing vehicles, equipment and facilities. This is a great model for Port au Port, and is a great example for other areas of the province.”
- Tony Cornect, MHA for Port au Port

The provision of fire protection is a municipal responsibility and the Provincial Government encourages discussions between communities in regard to forming regional fire protection agreements.

“I am delighted an agreement has been reached between Port au Port East and Port au Port West-Aguathuna-Felix Cove which will provide fire protection services to the region. It is essential that we work together for the safety and security of our residents.”
- Eileen Hann, Mayor of Port au Port East

Both councils will contribute equally to the departmental budget. Other communities availing of the new regional department will be prescribed a fee for service. All funds collected will contribute to the annual operation and long-term stability of the department.

“By working together we have achieved an efficient and effective way to provide fire protection services for both communities. I look forward to a long standing partnership with Port au Port East and I am confident that our residents will take comfort in the service provided.”
- Melina Bennett, Mayor of Port au Port West-Aguathuna-Felix Cove

Since 2010, over 300 requests to cost-share firefighting equipment have been approved, valued at more than $3 million, and over 40 communities have been assisted in replacing outdated emergency response vehicles at a cost of more than $11 million.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is committed to supporting important social programs, strong communities and the health and well-being of children, families and seniors.

QUICK FACTS

• The municipalities of Port au Port West-Aguathuna-Felix Cove and Port au Port East have formalized an agreement which will support the long-term provision of fire protection services for residents in the region.
• The Provincial Government encourages discussions between communities in regard to forming regional fire protection agreements.
• There are approximately 6,000 volunteers supporting approximately 272 fire departments province-wide.

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2014 02 13                               1:15 p.m.