Province Extends Protections to Volunteer Ground Search and Rescue

Nova Scotia Labour and Workforce Development introduced amendments to the Volunteer Fire Services Act extending protections given volunteer fire fighters to volunteer members of ground search and rescue teams.

"These brave men and women provide a valuable service to their communities, often at great personal risk," said Marilyn More, Minister of Labour and Workforce Development. "These volunteers make life better for their friends, family and all Nova Scotians, springing into action during times of great distress."

The legislation will offer volunteer search and rescue teams benefits such as $100,000 to the estate of volunteers who die accidentally while performing their duties.

"Nova Scotia is leading the country in terms of the protections offered to ground search and rescue members," said Ramona Jennex, Minister Responsible for Emergency Management. "This is a reflection of how much we value the service they provide to all Nova Scotians."

There are 24 volunteer ground search and rescue teams across the province with more than 1,000 members.

For more information:

Brian Taylor, Labour and Workforce Development
902-424-0281
E-mail: taylorbk@gov.ns.ca
www.gov.ns.ca/lwd