Premier, Mayor, Community Members Thank Firefighters, Organizations

Hundreds of Nova Scotians joined Premier Rodney MacDonald and HRM Mayor Peter Kelly as they thanked firefighters, volunteers, community organizations, RCMP, ground search and rescue workers, and government staff whose courageous efforts saved lives and property during the June 13 wildfires along the Eastern Shore and in Tantallon.

The appreciation event was held today, July 3, at Cole Harbour Place in Dartmouth to recognize Department of Natural Resources firefighters, the Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency Service, Halifax Regional Search and Rescue, the Canadian Red Cross, and the Salvation Army for their efforts during the fires.

"Today was a wonderful opportunity for everyone affected by the fires to express their gratitude to the everyday heroes who went to extraordinary lengths to stop the large fires and to provide comfort for thousands of evacuees," Premier MacDonald said.

The Porters Lake-Lake Echo fire was the largest wildland fire in an urban area fought in Nova Scotia and the largest fire in more than 30 years. It resulted in the most significant fire-caused evacuation in the province's history.

"For their extraordinary strength, dedication, generosity and willingness to help, they are commended," Mayor Kelly said. "Everyone worked tirelessly to respond to this crisis and in a manner that was swift, compassionate and effective."

During the event, Premier MacDonald announced that the Department of Natural Resources will provide up to 175,000 black spruce seedlings to homeowners in the Porters Lake-Lake Echo and Tantallon areas.

The seedlings will be available during National Forest Week in September. Residents who would like more information about the seedlings can call the department's Waverley office at 902-861-2560, or the Middle Musquodoboit office at 902-384-2290.