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

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to highlight the achievements of Chief Jodie Matthews of the Pacquet Fire Department. Chief Matthews has been chosen by the National Fire Protection Association to receive its 2019 Rising Star award for her dedication to educating the public, saving lives, and protecting the community.

Chief Matthews was selected based on her demonstration of providing consistent and innovative outreach to her community, and actively using and implementing National Fire Protection Association resources and programs in her community.

We extend our very best wishes to the chief as she travels to the organization’s annual conference and expo next week in San Antonio, Texas to receive her award.

Mr. Speaker, it is worth noting that Chief Matthews is one of a small number of female fire chiefs in our province. We are proud to support women in fire services and encourage women to enter into this critical field.

Our government remains committed to investing in quality fire services and working with fire departments to ensure that residents are safe and protected. I would like to extend a big thank-you to all the firefighters in the province for their dedication and the sacrifices they make to protect families and communities.

I ask all members of this Honourable House to recognize this special achievement by Chief Matthews as we wish her congratulations on receiving this prestigious award, and on being a role model for young women and men in our province.

Thank you.