WHEREAS there is no current vision for the future of fire rescue service delivery in the Province of BC and there are many service gaps throughout the province; AND WHEREAS there have been several indications that the provincial government is planning to re-examine its role and responsibilities in relation to BC fire service, which may lead to the Province withdrawing from certain areas of its responsibilities while it defines its new roles: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Union of BC Municipalities support the Fire ServicesGovernment Liaison Groups creation of a Model for the delivery of fire services to the citizens of BC for the 21st Century.
Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General The Office of the Fire Commissioner OFC is moving to a governance based model, which emphasizes close relationships with stakeholder organizations like the Fire Service Liaison Group FSLG, which authored UBCM Resolution SR4. The OFC is committed to working with the FSLG as it develops a new model for the fire service of the future. The OFC will not be withdrawing from its responsibilities set out in the Fire Services Act. When implemented, the OFCs governance-focused structure will afford several benefits to the responsibilities shared jointly with local governments and its fire departments. Local citizens will receive services which reflect the unique needs of their communities. Local government and their fire departments will be able to depend on high-quality assistance from the OFC yet remain in control of their programs. OFC staff will be able to apply their professional skills in a more focused and effective approach while developing strong relationships in support of local fire services stakeholders.