People in Nova Scotia who wish to assist during natural disasters will have the opportunity to join a new volunteer group called the Nova Scotia Guard.
Today, Premier Tim Houston announced that individuals with relevant skills can enroll with the province, which will create a pool of volunteers that first responders and community organizations can request help from during or after emergencies.
Houston mentioned that the guard will be managed by the new Department of Emergency Management, which is set to replace the current Emergency Management Office as per the legislation proposed today.
John Lohr, the current minister responsible for the Emergency Management Office, will lead the new department.
Houston stated that the reorganization will enable the province to respond more effectively to climate-related emergencies like wildfires and floods.
The new department is anticipated to be established in the autumn, following discussions with municipalities and community organizations.
This report by The Canadian Press was initially published on March 28, 2024.
