Fire Departments on the Northeast Coast Receive Equipment Funding

Fire protection services in three communities will be enhanced, thanks to Provincial Government funding of more than $23,800. The Honourable Kevin O’Brien, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Minister Responsible for Fire and Emergency Services, today announced funding for Colliers, Logy Bay-Middle Cove-Outer Cove, and Upper Island Cove departments.

“Municipal fire departments across Newfoundland and Labrador provide a fundamental service to our residents and the Provincial Government is pleased to help firefighters deliver the best service possible,” said Minister O’Brien. “Our focus continues on personal protective equipment, in an effort to ensure the safety of the women and men of the fire service.”

The funding will provide for personal protective equipment, as outlined below:

“In protecting people and property, our volunteer firefighters provide a vital service to our communities,” said the Honourable Tom Hedderson, Minister of Transportation and Works and MHA for Harbour Main. “It is essential that they have the necessary tools to allow them to respond to emergencies as efficiently and as safely as possible. I am pleased to see this funding for new air cylinders for the Colliers Volunteer Fire Department to help them as they serve the Town of Colliers and surrounding communities."

“I am pleased that the volunteer firefighters of Logy Bay-Middle Cove-Outer Cove will benefit from this equipment funding,” said Kevin Parsons, MHA for Cape St. Francis. “The new bunker clothing will enhance the protection and safety of these individuals as they continue to serve residents of our communities.”

Budget 2010: The Right Investments – For Our Children and Our Future doubled the investment in firefighting equipment from $500,000 to $1 million, while also increasing expenditures on firefighting vehicles to a total of $2.5 million. Funding for each fire department will be shared between the Provincial Government and the respective communities under the 90/10 cost-shared ratio established through the Municipal Capital Works Program.

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2011 02 22                                                                            2:10 p.m.