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Gitga’at First Nation completes new fire stations in Hartley Bay

Press Release

From: Indigenous Services Canada

October 11, 2018 — Hartley Bay, Gitga’at Territory, BC — Indigenous Services Canada

The Government of Canada is committed to improving fire prevention and protection services, which includes investing in reliable infrastructure that supports the safety and security of First Nations communities.

Today, the Honourable Jane Philpott, Minister of Indigenous Services, congratulated Gitga’at First Nation on the grand opening of two new fire stations in Hartley Bay.

Located on the remote northern coast of British Columbia, the Gitga’at First Nation community of Hartley Bay is divided into two neighbourhoods along the Kulkayu River. The completion of fire stations, one on each side of the river, will ensure that emergency services are available to both neighbourhoods. Both fire stations will also provide enough space to store Gitga’at First Nation’s emergency response equipment and vehicles during inclement weather.

Indigenous Services Canada invested $1.9 million in this project through the First Nations Infrastructure Fund.

Quotes

“Fire prevention and protection infrastructure is essential to saving lives. Our government was pleased to partner with Gitga’at First Nation on their recently completed fire stations in Hartley Bay, which will help support emergency services for those living in neighborhoods on both sides of the river. We will continue to work with First Nations to improve fire safety in communities across the country.”

The Honourable Jane Philpott, P.C., M.P.
Minister of Indigenous Services

“This much-needed infrastructure investment will provide our fire department with the space to house and maintain our emergency equipment and vehicles. It will give our dedicated fire department volunteers a place to call their own and the ability to train year-round, despite the extremely harsh weather conditions that we face on the northwest coast.”

Arnold Clifton
Elected and Hereditary Chief
Gitga’at First Nation

Quick facts

  • Gitga’at First Nation has a registered population of 770, with about 140 living on reserve.
  • Gitga’at First Nation is located in the remote coastal community of Hartley Bay, which is only accessible by floatplane or ferry from Prince Rupert.
  • The Gitga’at Volunteer Fire Department has 18 members on their firefighting roster and two fire trucks in their fleet.
Associated links

Contacts

Rachel Rappaport
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Jane Philpott
Minister of Indigenous Services
819-934-2796

Media Relations
Indigenous Services Canada
819-953-1160
SAC.media.ISC@canada.ca

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