Province Supports HRM, Guysborough and Antigonish Fire Departments, Emergency Responders

NOTE: A list of projects follows this release.

Fire departments and emergency responders in Halifax Regional Municipality, Guysborough and Antigonish counties, will be able to purchase equipment to help them better protect their communities with provincial support announced today, Aug. 15.

Through the Emergency Services Provider Fund, the province is investing almost $69,000 in 10 organizations in those areas.

"We are pleased to support fire departments and first responders so they can buy equipment to provide better service to residents and communities," said Jim Boudreau, MLA Guysborough-Sheet Harbour, on behalf of John MacDonell, Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations. "We want to ensure our emergency responders have the tools they need to safely and effectively carry out their duties."

The funds will be used to purchase essential equipment used in the response to a fire or an emergency such as personal protective equipment, ice and water rescue equipment, communication equipment, thermal imaging cameras, and portable pump and suction hoses.

"The Emergency Services Providers Fund will help us purchase equipment needed to protect our communities and, in doing so, ensure the safety of both the residences and firefighters," said Kerry Archibald, fire chief, St. Mary's and District Fireman's Association.

The program provides up to 50 per cent of eligible costs for approved projects, to a maximum contribution of $20,000. The program is providing about $500,000 to 55 organizations.

Fire Departments, Emergency Responders receiving funding are:

• Antigonish County Fire Department, $8,395
• Chedabucto Fire Department, Guysborough County, $2,675
• District 6 Goshen Volunteer Fire Department, Guysborough County, $4,669
• Havre Boucher and District Volunteer Fire Department, Antigonish County, $11,924
• Larry's River and District Fire Department, Guysborough County, $6,946
• Musquodoboit Valley Ground Search and Rescue, Halifax Regional Municipality, $9,103
• North Shore Volunteer Fire Department, Antigonish County, $11,040
• Seashore Volunteer Fire Department, Guysborough County, $2,458
• St. Mary's and District Fireman's Association, Guysborough County, $7,791