The follow statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable John Hogan, KC, Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Attorney General:

I stand to acknowledge the 6,000 brave volunteer firefighters in our province.

Volunteer fire departments are the heart of so many of our communities. From fighting fires, to responding to emergencies, to organizing community events, volunteer firefighters make our towns safe and enjoyable places to live.

Recently, I witnessed firsthand the community-building efforts of volunteer firefighters with a visit to the Jack Connors Fire Training Centre in Pouch Cove. Through fundraising and support from the town council, a new training facility was built to service the local fire department, as well as departments from neighbouring communities – a project that epitomizes volunteer fire service.

As we put our faith in volunteer firefighters, we must ensure they are equipped with the right tools. This year our government doubled the budget for fire protection vehicles and equipment, enabling us to work strategically with communities and fire departments to enhance the protection of property, infrastructure and public safety.

Speaker, province-wide Public Safety Radio is another tool that we are delivering into the hands of volunteer firefighters. Last month at the Newfoundland and Labrador Fire Services Annual General Meeting, we announced that each volunteer fire department in our province will receive at least two portable and mobile radios – that’s over 780 radios at a cost of $2.6 million. This will improve communication during emergencies.

These brave volunteers help protect this province, and we are forever grateful. I ask all Honourable Members to join me in acknowledging Newfoundland and Labrador’s volunteer firefighters. Thank you.