**** CNS Media Release
Investments in Nova Scotia’s First Responders
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First responder organizations across the province will receive more funding for their vital work in protecting Nova Scotians, their homes and communities.
The Province’s Emergency Services Provider Fund will support 64 organizations this year, including fire departments, ground search and rescue teams and hazardous materials units.
“Volunteer first responders are the backbone of our communities, tirelessly dedicating their time and effort to protect and serve,” said John Lohr, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. “Their recent heroic efforts during the floods highlight their invaluable contribution, and this funding is a gesture of deep appreciation for their service.”
Grants totalling nearly $1.2 million will be distributed to organizations for upgrading equipment essential for fire and other emergency response operations.
The fund is one of the ways the Province is supporting emergency responders and improving the response to emergencies:
– by this fall, 2,000 new trunked radios will be provided to responders, which will improve communication as they assist Nova Scotians in need
– a pilot program aimed at improving the mental health of Nova Scotia’s first responders and other public safety personnel launched earlier this year
– the Nova Scotia Guard, a new volunteer corps that will help communities respond to and recover from crises and disasters, will launch this fall.
Quotes:
“Our first responders demonstrate unwavering commitment and bravery, often facing dangerous situations to ensure the safety of Nova Scotians. This funding is crucial in ensuring they have the tools and equipment they need to perform their duties effectively and safely. It’s a reflection of our collective responsibility to support those who selflessly protect our communities every day.”
— Doug MacKenzie, Nova Scotia’s Fire Marshal
“The Emergency Services Provider Fund is helpful to volunteer fire departments and ground search and rescue organizations throughout the province. Fire departments and the municipalities that support them can only do so much on their own, and additional funding helps provide the equipment to maintain and increase our response capabilities.”
— Scott Hamilton, Chief, Kentville Volunteer Fire Department
Quick Facts:
– types of equipment funded include rescue, water supply and personal protective equipment
– the program provides up to 75 per cent of eligible costs, up to a maximum of $20,000 per organization
– organizations can apply for funding every three years
Additional Resources:
The list of 2024-25 grant recipients is available at: https://beta.novascotia.ca/documents/emergency-services-provider-fund-grant-recipients
News Release – Therapy Program for First Responders Continues: https://news.novascotia.ca/en/2024/06/27/therapy-program-first-responders-continues
News Release – First Responders Day: https://news.novascotia.ca/en/2024/05/01/first-responders-day
News Release – Wildfire Report Highlights Strengths, Areas for Improvement: https://news.novascotia.ca/en/2024/04/29/wildfire-report-highlights-strengths-areas-improvement
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