Justice and Public Safety
August 12, 2015
Enhancing Safety for Residents
Minister Announces New Vehicle for Bay Roberts Fire Department
The Honourable Darin King, Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Minister Responsible for Fire and Emergency Services-Newfoundland and Labrador, today announced funding for a new rescue pumper unit for the Town of Bay Roberts. The vehicle, valued at approximately $270,000, will be cost-shared with the Provincial Government providing 80 per cent of the funding and the Town of Bay Roberts covering the remaining 20 per cent.
"This rescue pumper offers the versatility and enhanced capabilities the Bay Roberts Volunteer Fire Department requires to handle fires and emergencies in the region. Ensuring that first responders have the modern equipment they need to do their work effectively and safely is a priority for the Provincial Government. Today's event was a great opportunity to hear from firefighters and residents alike just how much this new vehicle will benefit their communities."
- The Honourable Darin King, Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Minister Responsible for Fire and Emergency Services-Newfoundland and Labrador
The funding is part of more than $5 million being provided through Budget 2015 for fire protection vehicles and equipment, matching the largest-ever amount allocated for this purpose in last year's budget. From Budget 2004 to the end of 2014-15, the Provincial Government has contributed more than $21 million toward the purchase of 133 new fire protection vehicles.
"Volunteer firefighters provide an exceptional service for the communities of the District of Port de Grave, putting their lives at risk to protect residents. We cannot thank them enough for their dedication, and we must continue to ensure we provide the important tools they need to make our region safer. This vehicle will play a critical role in accomplishing that."
- Glenn Littlejohn, MHA for Port de Grave
In addition to the new rescue pumper unit, elsewhere in the District of Port de Grave, the Provincial Government is investing nearly $9,800 for Upper Island Cove to purchase helmet mounts and lights as well as various hoses. Over the past decade, more than $6.5 million was invested in new firefighting equipment across the province. This includes more than $23,000 for the Town of Spaniard's Bay to purchase eight sets of personal protective equipment, 25 helmets, 25 pairs of boots, and four hoods.
"The lifesaving work of our fire department is critical to the sense of security of our residents and the continued growth of Bay Roberts. Our firefighters are a strong asset for the community and this new vehicle will enable them to complete their work more safely."
- Mayor Philip Wood of the Town of Bay Roberts
Bay Roberts new rescue pumper unit is powered by a six-cylinder diesel engine and its features include foam capability and a 1,000 gallon water tank.
"Responding to calls as quickly as possible can make all the difference when a fire is threatening property or lives. This vehicle will help us get our firefighters to the scene faster."
- Fire Chief Adam Norman
The Bay Roberts Fire Department has been protecting residents of the community and surrounding areas for more than 60 years.
QUICK FACTS:
- The Honourable Darin King, Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Minister Responsible for Fire and Emergency Services-Newfoundland and Labrador, was in Bay Roberts today to announce a $270,000 cost-shared investment for a new rescue pumper vehicle for the Bay Roberts Volunteer Fire Department.
- The funding for the new vehicle is being provided on an 80/20 cost-shared basis with the Provincial Government providing the larger portion and the Town of Bay Roberts providing the rest.
- Budget 2015 included approximately $5 million for fire protection vehicles and equipment, matching the highest-ever level of funding for fire and emergency services in Newfoundland and Labrador set the previous year.
- From Budget 2004 to the end of 2014-15, the Provincial Government contributed more than $21 million toward the purchase of 133 new fire protection vehicles. In addition, more than $6.5 million was invested in new firefighting equipment.
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Media contact:
Ryan Crocker
Public Relations Specialist Fire and Emergency Services-Newfoundland and Labrador 709-729-0857, 709-682-5011 ryancrocker@gov.nl.ca |
2015 08 12 3:10 p.m.