New Firefighting Vehicles Announced for Meadows and Ming’s Bight

Modern firefighting vehicles will be heading to the communities of Meadows and Ming’s Bight in early 2012, as part of an unprecedented Provincial Government investment in the municipal fire service.

“This government remains committed to enhancing fire services throughout Newfoundland and Labrador by helping our communities acquire vehicles, construct and repair fire halls, and purchase equipment,” said the Honourable Kevin O’Brien, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Minister Responsible for Fire and Emergency Services. “New fire trucks for Meadows and Ming’s Bight will not only modernize the equipment used by these important volunteers, but also improve public safety, which is a priority for our government.”

Meadows will acquire a new pumper truck, while Ming’s Bight has been approved to purchase a new firefighting tanker truck.

“This is welcome news for the tireless fire department volunteers in Meadows,” said Terry Loder, MHA for Bay of Islands. “This new pumper truck will be an important addition to the Meadows Fire Department. Today’s announcement represents a significant advancement in the first response capacity for the area and is an excellent example of how municipalities are improving infrastructure in partnership with the Provincial Government.”

Public tenders for the new vehicles will be let this summer, with delivery expected to begin in 2012. Both Meadows and Ming’s Bight will take advantage of a 90/10 cost-share arrangement with the Provincial Government to purchase the equipment.

“I am very pleased that funding has been awarded to purchase a new tanker truck for the community of Ming’s Bight,” said Kevin Pollard, MHA for Baie Verte-Springdale. “This announcement will help the municipal fire department replace an older vehicle with a state-of-the-art tanker. This is certainly a good news announcement for residents and volunteers alike.”

Budget 2011 Standing Strong: For Prosperity. For Our Future. For Newfoundland and Labrador provides a historic investment in the municipal fire service. An investment of $3.9 million has been allocated for new firefighting vehicles, as well as a continued $1 million allocation to fund equipment needs to assist communities. With the addition of a new Provincial Volunteer Firefighter Tax Credit to acknowledge the commitment of the men and women in the volunteer fire service, the Provincial Government has allocated more than $6 million towards the municipal fire service this year.

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2011 07 05             11:15 a.m.