The Honourable Pleaman Forsey, Minister of Forestry, Agriculture and Lands and the Honourable Andrea Barbour, Minister of Environment, Conservation and Climate Change and MHA for St. Barbe-L’Anse aux Meadows, today announced more than $626,000 under the Fire Vehicles and Equipment Grant Fund to further the Provincial Government’s platform commitment to creating safer communities for the people of our province.
The ministers announced more than $616,000 for a pumper truck for the St. Anthony Fire Department, and more than $10,000 for fire equipment for the Port aux Choix Volunteer Fire Department.
The ministers were joined by St. Anthony Fire Department Chief Corwin Randell and department members, and representatives from the Port aux Choix Volunteer Fire Department.
These investments will enhance emergency response capacity and help ensure residents in these regions receive reliable fire protection services when they are needed most.
Through Budget 2026, the Provincial Government is providing more than $7 million to strengthen volunteer fire departments across the province with funding for essential equipment, training, and operational supports, including $4.1 million for the Fire Vehicles and Equipment Grant Fund – a $400,000 increase in funding from previous years.
The Provincial Government stands by its platform commitment of safer communities for all us by further enhancing emergency service resources to support firefighters and emergency responders.
Quotes
“Keeping communities safe requires well-equipped fire departments. Investments in fire protection vehicles and equipment enhance emergency response capabilities, support firefighters in carrying out their duties safely and help protect lives and property.”
Honourable Pleaman Forsey
Minister of Forestry, Agriculture and Lands
“I am happy to welcome my colleague, Minister Forsey, to our beautiful district to bring very welcome news to the people of St. Anthony. Our announcement today reaffirms our PC government’s commitment to safer communities in St. Barbe-L’Anse aux Meadows. Rural firefighters are more than first responders; they are the backbone of our communities. I look forward to continuing to work on behalf of our district to deliver on our government’s commitment of ensuring firefighters have the tools they need to do their job as best as they can before, during, and after the call.”
Honourable Andrea Barbour
Minister of Environment, Conservation and Climate Change
MHA for St. Barbe-L’Anse aux Meadows
“We have a very active and committed fire department, and this is more than just a vehicle for them. It’s an investment in the protection, safety and future of our residents and communities.”
Michelle Tucker
Mayor of St. Anthony
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Learn more
Minister Forsey Announces Support for Fire Protection Vehicle and Equipment – August 21, 2026
Minister Forsey Announces Support for Fire Protection Vehicles and Fire Equipment – July 22, 2026