The provincial government of Nova Scotia is introducing new funding aimed at enhancing the support for regional emergency management organizations (REMOs) across the province. This initiative comes in light of the increased need for effective emergency response systems, as highlighted by the recent Long Lake and Lake George wildfires that occurred during the summer months.
According to government announcements, the funding will be provided in the form of grants totaling approximately $1 million. This financial support is designed to bolster various aspects of emergency management, including the improvement of communications infrastructure, hiring additional staff, and providing necessary training for personnel involved in emergency response efforts.
Kim Masland, the Minister of Emergency Management, emphasized the importance of a coordinated response during emergencies. She stated, “The Long Lake and Lake George wildfires this summer showed us how important it is to have a strong, co-ordinated emergency response. We have such a resilient province, and we want to keep building off 2025’s successes and supporting REMOs as local leaders in emergency management.” Her remarks underline the government’s commitment to strengthening emergency preparedness and response capacities across Nova Scotia.
The government has indicated that the organizations receiving this funding are located in several counties including Colchester, Cumberland, Pictou, Digby, Lunenburg, and Guysborough. This targeted financial assistance is expected to empower these organizations to enhance their capabilities and serve their communities more effectively during emergencies.
Moreover, the province has made it clear that while specific organizations have been identified to receive funding, other organizations that are not on the current list will also have the opportunity to apply for these grants. This aspect of the funding initiative aims to ensure that a broader range of regional organizations can take advantage of the support available for improving their emergency management services.
With this new funding initiative, the Nova Scotia government is taking proactive steps to ensure that regional emergency management organizations are well-equipped to handle potential crises in the future. The emphasis on improving infrastructure, training, and staffing reflects a comprehensive approach to emergency preparedness that aligns with the growing complexity and frequency of emergencies faced by communities today.
