Government of Canada highlights the new Memorial Grant Program for First Responders

EDMONTON, April 11, 2018 /CNW/ - When firefighters, police officers and paramedics put their safety on the line, they are acting in service to all Canadians. When their work leads to the ultimate sacrifice, their families deserve our support in return.

Today, the Honourable Amarjeet Sohi, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, participated in an event with the Edmonton Firefighters Union where he highlighted the launch of the Government of Canada's Memorial Grant Program for First Responders, a new grant program that recognizes the service and sacrifice of first responders who die as a direct result of carrying out their duties.

Through the Memorial Grant Program, families of first responders – police, firefighters and paramedics, including volunteers, reservists and auxiliary members – that lose a loved one as a direct result of their duties, will receive a one-time lump sum, tax-free payment of $300,000.The Program took effect on April 1, 2018 and will be implemented in cooperation with provinces and territories.

Quotes

"We must stand with the women and men who risk their lives to keep us safe and with their families when tragedy strikes. Our government is proud to have established the Memorial Grant Program for First Responders to provide a maximum one-time tax-free $300,000 payment to the families of police officers, firefighters and paramedics who lose their lives as a direct result of their duties. The selflessness and sacrifice of first responders command the respect of all Canadians, and their families deserve to be treated with the greatest compassion and support."

– The Honourable Amarjeet Sohi, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities

"The Memorial Grant Program will mean an incredible amount to the families of first responders. Every day, firefighters, police and paramedics put the safety of others before themselves in the delivery of emergency services to the public. It's absolutely vital for them to know that their families will be taken care of in the event that the worst happens. I thank our government for putting this program in place and creating such a recognition of sacrifice."

– Fire Chief Ken Block, Edmonton Fire Rescue Services and President of the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs

Quick Facts

• In Budget 2017 the Government of Canada committed to establishing a compensation program to support the families of public safety officers who have died in the line of duty. The Government has committed a total of $117.4 million over five years, starting in 2018–2019, and $23.4 million per year after that.
• The Government of Canada is undertaking a competitive procurement process to contract a company to support the administration of the Memorial Grant Program for First Responders. This support will include assisting families with the application process, reviewing applications and making recommendations to Public Safety Canada regarding the eligibility of applicants. Public Safety Canada will remain responsible for making the final decision on eligibility and for making payments to successful applicants.

Associated Link

• Memorial Grant Program for First Responders

SOURCE Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Canada