Provincial Government Urges Federal Minister to Act Now

The Honourable Kevin O’Brien, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Minister Responsible for Fire and Emergency Services, is once again calling on the Federal Government today to immediately act upon the recommendations outlined in the Federal Auditor General’s report on federal search and rescue activities.

“We have been clear in our discussions with the Federal Government for a number of years, and now with the release of the Auditor General’s report, the time for study is over and the time for action is upon us,” said Minister O’Brien. “The recommendations are definitive, and a clear path forward to improve search and rescue in this country has been outlined. The issues are all on the table and the next steps must be taken by the Federal Government. The Premier expects action, our government expects action and the people of Newfoundland and Labrador will accept no less.”

The Provincial Government repeatedly raises areas of concern with the Federal Government, particularly on issues related to personnel and assets. In a recent announcement by the Federal Government, a number of initiatives were identified to improve search and rescue. While these were welcomed, they fall far short of solving the fundamental issues which have led to serious concerns within national search and rescue.

During a meeting earlier this week, Minister O’Brien reiterated the concerns of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and outlined a number of options which would bring immediate improvements to the search and rescue system. These included an immediate reversal of the closure of the Marine Rescue Sub Centre as well as a pilot project which would see search and rescue augmented through partnerships with the private sector.

“The key issues relate to the quality and availability of assets and the ability to attract, train and retain qualified personnel within the federal search and rescue system,” said Minister O’Brien. “We have asked Minister MacKay for a detailed action plan and associated timelines which will get to the heart of the issues identified by the Auditor General. We have an objective, independent, systematic report from the Auditor General and the responsible thing for the minister to do is act immediately.”

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Media contact:
Hugh Donnan
Director of Communications
Department of Municipal Affairs
709-729-1983, 725-6511
hughdonnan@gov.nl.ca 

2013 05 08             12:05 p.m.