The Torbay Volunteer Fire Department has been presented with a $236,000 fire response vehicle to enhance fire protection services for residents of the Town of Flatrock and the surrounding area. The Honourable Jack Byrne, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Minister Responsible for Fire and Emergency Services � Newfoundland and Labrador (FES-NL), made the presentation yesterday afternoon at the Flatrock Fire Hall.

The Town of Flatrock shares fire and emergency services with the neighbouring Town of Torbay. This includes fire services as well as code four medical calls. They jointly operate the fire department for the over 6,000 residents of both communities.

"This fire response vehicle will immediately be put into service to enhance emergency response for the residents of the Town of Flatrock," said Minister Byrne. "This additional truck is a regional fire protection initiative and will provide a stronger capability for volunteer firefighters to effectively respond to and suppress fires, while supporting efforts for towns to work together to share services."

In August 2007, the Provincial Government announced an investment of $1,745,300 in support of emergency equipment that would provide improved fire protection services for communities throughout the province. The Town of Flatrock was identified to receive a new fire pumper truck. The truck is a 2007 International, Contender Series. Its capabilities include a 2001 Class A foam package, 875-gallon tank, four SCBA seats, four-door, 330HP engine, and automatic transmission.

"The Town of Flatrock is fortunate to have the services of the Torbay Volunteer Fire Department in our community," said Mayor Kevin Parsons. "A new fire truck will boost their capability significantly. The residents and I are grateful to the Torbay Volunteer Fire Department, and the Provincial Government through Minister Byrne, for making this equipment a reality and providing this extremely important service to our residents."

"Government will continue to invest in the necessary equipment that will lessen the effect of fires and emergency situations for residents around Newfoundland and Labrador," added Minister Byrne. "We remain committed to keeping our people safe and secure in their communities, and through a regional initiative such as this, the new truck undoubtedly supports just that."

Funding for the new response vehicle was supported through the Municipal Capital Works Program which is a cost-shared program supporting municipal infrastructure projects, including investments in fire equipment. In 2007-08, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador earmarked $34.2 million in support of the program of which 93 per cent supports smaller municipalities around the province.

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