In 2007, Port aux Basques got a hazmat response trailer. At that time, only one person was trained as a technician, and Fire Chief Jerry Musseau had been lobbying the Fire Association to have additional firefighters trained for the past two years. The first stint of hazmat technician training was from February 15 to 21, and the final three days were from March 4 to 6. The training was completed by seven volunteer firefighters from Port aux Basques and two from Isle aux Morts.

The training involved a mock spill from a leaking drum and cylinder. The technicians had to stop the leak, assess the situation, and go through the decontamination unit to remove hazardous material from their suits. Paramedics were also on the scene to record vitals before and after the exercise. The team will look after the area from Rose Blanche to Steel Mountain.

Chief Musseau felt that with a lot of dangerous goods coming off the ferry at Port aux Basques, it was very important that we have a fully trained team in the area to help if necessary.

Mr. Speaker, I ask all members of this House to join with me in extending congratulations to the seven volunteer firefighters from Port aux Basques and the two from Isle aux Morts on successfully completing this technician training.