Thanks to Nanoose Volunteer Fire Department Chief Leo Groenewegen and his all-volunteer crew for welcoming me to Saturday’s celebration of the Department’s 50th anniversary. I was glad to hear his view that my private members bill which led to the doubling of volunteer firefighter tax credits will help with recruitment. Great to see Parksville Councillor Sean Wood again along with RDN Chair Vanessa Craig and Electoral Area E rep Bob Rodgers. I enjoyed meeting volunteer firefighter John Thompson who retired after thirty-two years service. This fire hall handles more than two hundred calls a year, many health emergencies and motor vehicle accidents. All of the members are volunteers, contributing their time and making personal sacrifices along with their families, to provide an essential service to the community for which we are very grateful.
