February 25, 2021
Province Approves $9.14 Million in Fire Protection Grants to Protect Manitobans
– – –Funding Will Provide Effective Fire Protection Services to Manitobans: Johnson
The Manitoba government’s one-time fund, created to provide fire protection and emergency response across the province, was so greatly received that additional funding has been invested, Municipal Relations Minister Derek Johnson, minister responsible for the Office of the Fire Commissioner, announced today.
“Our government is committed to the protection of Manitobans and this additional funding will ensure effective fire prevention services are available to all communities,” said Johnson. “We received over 200 applications, requesting support for various projects and we were able to invest nearly double to support over $9 million from the original plan of $5 million. By allocating additional funding for the grant, we can assist more communities in meeting their fire protection goals and help improve the service delivery of Manitoba’s fire service across our province.”
The Fire Protection Grant was open to municipalities and Northern Affairs communities to support projects or activities that would improve fire protection and emergency response. Eligible fire protection projects included items such as preparedness planning, training and safety equipment.
“The Association of Manitoba Municipalities (AMM) commends the provincial government for nearly doubling its investment to support fire services and protect local communities across Manitoba,” said Kam Blight, president, AMM. “These funds will not only improve emergency responders’ ability to manage incidents but also significantly enhance public safety provincewide.”
“The Manitoba Association of Fire Chiefs is pleased with the support given to Manitoba fire departments through the Manitoba Fire Protection Grant,” said Darren Fedorchuk, president, Manitoba Association of Fire Chiefs. “The funds allocated through this grant will benefit both large and small departments throughout the province and will assist us in providing our cities, towns and municipalities with the quality protection they deserve.”
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