Government’s decision to refuse an application by the Deer Lake fire brigade for a second fire truck is a dangerous decision that should be reconsidered by the minister, says Roland Butler, Opposition Municipal Affairs Critic and MHA for the District of Port de Grave.

According to officials in Deer Lake, the number of fire emergency calls has increased over the past couple of years. Not only have the volunteer fire fighters responded to fires in the region, they also respond to other emergencies such as traffic accidents on the Trans Canada Highway and the Viking Trail. With only one fire truck available, it will be very difficult for the fire fighters to respond to emergencies outside of Deer Lake, especially in areas such as Birchy Narrows over 45 minutes away.

“Government’s decision not to provide this necessary fire equipment to the people of Deer Lake and surrounding area is dangerous and has the potential to leave emergency situations unaddressed,” said Mr. Butler. “The existing fire truck was called to respond to highway accidents 15 times last year. It is obvious that this level of service cannot be maintained without additional equipment.

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