The Honourable John Hogan, QC, Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Attorney General, has released the final report of the Inquiry into Ground Search and Rescue for Lost and Missing Persons in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Minister Hogan will be available to take questions from the media today (Wednesday, December 1) in front of the House of Assembly, East Block, Confederation Building at 3:00 p.m.
Led by former Provincial Court Judge James Igloliorte, the inquiry examined the organization and operations of the ground search and rescue system in the Province. The report is available online here.
Some of the key recommendations include:
- Increased use of the Civil Air Search And Rescue Association spotters;
- Mental health training for policing agencies and search and rescue teams;
- Funding and insurance benefits to support the Newfoundland and Labrador Search and Rescue Association;
- Ensuring current gaps in contracted air assets are addressed; and
- A review of the 911 process to ensure distress calls are tasked in an optimal manner.
The Provincial Government will immediately commence work to review and evaluate the 17 recommendations and consult with stakeholders to determine how best to proceed.
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“I want to thank Commissioner Igloliorte and all of those who participated in this process that ultimately will help improve the ground search and rescue system in the province and ensure the safety of residents. Search and rescue is as important today as it was a decade ago, and the findings of this inquiry will have long-lasting impacts for many more years to come.”
Honourable John Hogan, QC
Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Attorney General
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