New Agreement Enhances Search and Rescue Services

The Honourable Darin King, Minister of Justice, and the Honourable Kevin O’Brien, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Responsible for Fire and Emergency Services - Newfoundland and Labrador, today announced an agreement with the Civil Air Search and Rescue Association of Newfoundland and Labrador (CASARA) to augment air search support services available in the province. CASARA is a volunteer, non-profit aviation association which can provide air search support services to supplement ground search and rescue programs.

“This Memorandum of Understanding is the result of significant work between the Provincial Government and CASARA representatives and formally launches an important agreement that benefits residents of the province,” said Minister King. “CASARA will be another resource available for our provincial police services that coordinate ground search and rescue activities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.”

Under the new agreement, CASARA will provide certified members and aircraft when requested by local police services to assist in air search support for lost or missing persons and also provide certified aircrew and spotters for duties on other aircraft when required. The MOU became possible after recent amendments were made to the province’s Workplace, Health, Safety and Compensation Act that allow for coverage for those volunteers engaged in search and rescue activities.

“This new agreement with CASARA is an excellent opportunity to encourage synergy with the various emergency responders available in the province,” said the Minister O’Brien. “It demonstrates our government’s continuous efforts to enhance ground search and rescue capabilities for the people of the province.”

Members of CASARA participate in training sessions, workshops coordinated by the national association, spotting techniques, map reading, and other search and rescue techniques.

“Our members are active participants in search and rescue activities and are trained in accordance with the association’s standards,” said Brian Bishop, President of CASARA. “We are pleased to have the opportunity to participate in activities that will aid the province in its search and rescue efforts. “

CASARA currently operates in three zones in Newfoundland and Labrador with each zone having its own volunteers and infrastructure.

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2013 06 18             2:30 p.m.