Canada - The Honourable John Hogan, KC, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, today announced additional support for volunteer firefighters and ground search and rescue teams in recognition of their extraordinary efforts during the recent wildfires in the Conception Bay North region, Paddy’s Pond, Holyrood and Martin Lake.
As part of the Provincial Government’s ongoing commitment to honour their vital contributions, the following initiatives have been announced:
- $500 one-time honourarium to volunteer firefighters and ground search and rescue members who contributed their time and skill to the wildfires.
- $10,000 one-time honourarium to local fire departments and ground search and rescue teams who deployed volunteers to support wildfire response.
This assistance is rooted in gratitude for their continued effort, skill and dedication and whose actions safeguarded residents and impacted communities.
To help support the administration of the honourariums, $1,000 will be provided to each Town or Local Service District to distribute to volunteer firefighters.
Additionally, $5,000 will be provided to the Newfoundland and Labrador Search and Rescue Association for administrative support to distribute the honourariums to ground search and rescue members.
These initiatives build on previous supports, including $100,000 for the provision of wildland coveralls to volunteer fire departments that supported wildfire suppression efforts this past month.
As part of this expanded support, another $30,000 Special Assistance Grant will be provided to the Town of Small Point-Broad Cove-Blackhead-Adam’s Cove, bringing the total support to $60,000. This assistance will further help the Town with wildfire remediation.
These actions are led by the work of the ministerial committee created to support recovery efforts in the Conception Bay North Area. The committee continues to work diligently to coordinate efforts with all partners and is focused on immediate relief and medium-term recovery supports.
Quotes
“Volunteer firefighters and search and rescue teams selflessly put their lives on the line, setting aside personal responsibilities to protect their communities and neighbours. This wildfire season has been especially challenging. Their incredible resilience, unwavering commitment and continued service are deeply appreciated by our government and all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.”
Honourable John Hogan, KC
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador
“This committee is acting swiftly to implement meaningful supports, and to honour the exceptional contributions of volunteer firefighters and ground search and rescue teams. These initiatives are shaped by the voices of those directly affected and guided by the strength and leadership shown by responders on the ground. Together, we are building a path forward rooted in care, respect, and recovery.”
Honourable Jamie Korab
Chair, Cabinet Committee on Conception Bay North Response and Recovery
Minister of Seniors
Minister Responsible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation
“After discussions with fire departments, it was their wish that this funding go directly to local fire departments to help address their needs. It was noted, admirably, that many firefighters said that they answer the call without expecting to get paid. We believe they are due an individual stipend for their extraordinary efforts this season, but want to do it in a way that honours their request. I thank all volunteer firefighters and ground search and rescue teams that proudly serve our province.”
Honourable Dr. John Haggie
Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Attorney General
“As a government, we stand with the Town of Small Point-Broad Cove-Blackhead-Adam’s Cove in the aftermath of the recent fires. We remain committed to the region in its recovery and are pleased to provide an additional Special Assistance Grant of $30,000 to further assist in wildfire remediation.”
Honourable Paul Pike
Minister of Municipal Affairs and Community Engagement
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