BC pledging record $18.6M in funding for search and rescue teams
The BC search and rescue community is applauding the provincial government for a record-breaking investment into its teams.
The BC government has pledged $18.6-million in funding to be used over the next three years — the single largest provincial GSAR investment in BC’s history.
It’s intended to help the BC Search and Rescue Association (BCSARA) and GSAR groups bolster training, provide administrative support and equipment renewals.
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The BC Search & Rescue Association represents the 80 recognized GSAR groups across the province.
Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, said the province is also establishing a joint committee in hopes of developing a sustainable funding model for the groups.
The financial boost represents a 24% increase from the $5-million per year in supplemental funding announced three years ago.
“On behalf of the 80 ground search and rescue groups and 2,500 members across the province, our thanks to the provincial government for the single largest influx of funding for search and rescue to date,” said Chris Kelly, president, BCSARA.
Great news! We’ll be making the single largest provincial investment into Ground Search and Rescue in BC history.@BCSARAssoc is receiving $18.6M to put towards equipment and training for groups like @NSRescue in addition to operational funding for call outs. #NorthVan #WestVan pic.twitter.com/NAZcIdR99S
— Bowinn Ma (@BowinnMa) March 23, 2019
Smiling faces & good news at today’s announcement of $18.6 million for SAR over 3 years.
Thanks @selinarobinson and @mikefarnworthbc &@SurreyRescue @RidgeMeadowsSAR @NSRescue @BCSARAssoc @PEMO_SAR @LionsBaySAR @CFVSAR @ChilliwackSAR @NechakoVallySAR & others attending https://t.co/55831exIrI
— Coquitlam SAR (@CoquitlamSAR) March 24, 2019