NEWS RELEASE
MPP JILL DUNLOP
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MPP for Simcoe North Jill Dunlop, announced today that the Ontario Government is investing $49,100 to help Fire Services in Simcoe North address the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Orillia Fire Department is receiving $12,200, while the Ramara Fire Department will receive $6,900. The remainder of the funds will be aiding firefighters in Midland, Penetanguishene, Tay and Tiny.
The funding will enhance fire safety training and support safety inspection programs to ensure compliance with the Ontario Fire Code.
"Our government is committed to supporting Ontario’s fire services and thank them for their dedication to protecting our communities,” said MPP Dunlop. “This new investment will enhance fire safety in the Town of Penetanguishene, Tay Township, Tiny Township, Town of Midland, City of Orillia and Ramara Township by providing the technology and equipment needed to support training and fire inspections during these unprecedented times."
The funding is part of a $5 million provincial investment to help municipal fire services respond to the local impacts of COVID-19, which created risks and unprecedented challenges for fire departments to conduct training and fire safety inspections.
This one-time funding will enhance in-person and online educational instruction needs by increasing access to additional training. It will also support updates to specialized critical equipment, such as high-speed internet, to enhance virtual training and enable remote options to support fire safety and compliance with Ontario's Fire Code while minimizing exposure to the virus.
"Our government has listened to fire services across the province and recognizes the impact COVID-19 has had on their operations," said Solicitor General Sylvia Jones.
"This funding will enhance opportunities for training and support fire safety inspections needed to keep our communities safe. We are grateful to these brave, dedicated individuals for their commitment to protecting Ontarians as the fight against COVID-19 continues."
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