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 encourage emergency management partners and organizations to submit a nomination for the Emergency Management Exemplary Service Awards.

A prestigious recognition for exceptional service and achievement, the awards are delivered collaboratively by Public Safety Canada and provincial and territorial governments. The nomination deadline has been extended to August 30, 2019.

Awards are granted to groups or individuals in five categories, all intended to recognize excellence in aspects of emergency management. These five categories are: Resilient Communities; Search and Rescue Volunteers; Search and Rescue Employees; Youth; and Outstanding Contribution to Emergency Management. Nomination information is available from the main page of the Department of Municipal Affairs and Environment website.

Mr. Speaker, when emergencies happen, a collective effort is required to respond to the needs of affected people. From first responders to municipal officials to volunteers: they are all to be commended for the selfless acts they do day in and day out. Whether it is helping with search and rescue efforts, assisting a family displaced by fire, or volunteering in a community affected by a flood, their efforts are invaluable and should be recognized.

I encourage everyone to take a moment and nominate an individual or group that has shown dedication and commitment to the people of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Thank you.