Ministerial Statement – Minister Letto Highlights the Launch of T911

  • Municipal Affairs and Environment

December 4, 2018

The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Graham Letto, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Environment:


Mr. Speaker, I rise today to highlight the launch of Text-9-1-1 or T911. The system assists 911 Call Takers to communicate quickly and clearly with persons who are Deaf, late deafened, hard of hearing and others who may benefit by using wireless text messaging.

I was pleased to be joined for the announcement by several of my colleagues from this Honourable House as well as Kerry Power, Executive Director of NL911, and members of the community who will benefit from this new service.

As the minister responsible for emergency services, I am pleased to say that this increased access to services will ensure the safety and security of residents during an emergency situation. T911 will enable users to access 911 services more quickly and more easily, and provide peace of mind that emergency services are now accessible by text.

I would like to extend special thanks to the staff of NL911 Inc. for leading this initiative. I would also like to recognize those organizations that contributed their support and involvement, including: the Department of Children, Seniors and Social Development and the Disability Policy Office; the Provincial Advisory Council for the Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities; the Canadian Hard of Hearing Association-Newfoundland and Labrador; the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of the Deaf; and the Coalition of Persons with Disabilities Newfoundland and Labrador.

Through improved, quality emergency services that meet the needs of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, our government continues to act on our commitment to ensure the safety and well-being of residents, families and communities.

Thank you.

2018 12 04 2:20 pm