Mr. Speaker, I use my Member’s statement today to acknowledge our emergency service personnel, particularly firefighters, both career and volunteer members. As is the case for many of the people who work silently behind the scenes on our behalf, we don’t recognize them nearly enough.
Emergency service personnel stand by for us 24 hours a day, seven days a week, ready and willing to do dangerous work if called upon. These men and women train and prepare to be ready for action at a moment’s notice. They have specialized skills and knowledge that enable them to do an outstanding job, often in difficult weather and treacherous conditions. They put life and limb at risk to keep us safe, and they keep our homes and businesses safe. At times, all they can do is control a situation, and homes and businesses are lost. And unfortunately, because it is potentially dangerous work, firefighters sometimes get injured, occasionally fatally.
Just three years ago next month, the city of Yellowknife lost two firefighters as they fought a fire in the line of duty. They gave their lives for our community as they performed a job they both loved.
Because we won’t be in session next month, today I want to specifically remember and honour Cyril Fyfe and Kevin Olson, two exemplary firefighters who were both fatally injured March 17, 2005.
In their memory I recognize and honour all N.W.T. emergency service personnel as they go about their jobs today and every day. To each and every one, I say thank you for protecting us; thank you for taking risks for us.
To my colleagues I say, as you return to your communities over the next few days, take the time to search out and visit with your local firefighters and thank them personally.
And on March 17, stop and take a moment to think of those we have lost. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Applause.
