News Release

Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency
Launch Recruitment Program for Female Firefighters

(Friday, May 27, 2005) – Chief Director Mike Eddy announced this morning Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency is launching a new recruitment program, aimed at hiring more female firefighters to the service.

A committee has been formed to develop and promote the initiative in conjunction with current female firefighters and other HRM representatives.

Since 1996, Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency has made efforts to support a diverse fire service workforce by attracting under represented groups to the fire service, including a successful African Canadian recruitment conducted in 2003, resulting in hiring 12 new firefighters.

Chief Director Eddy said “one phase of the initiative will be to support female enrollment at the Nova Scotia Firefighters School. Upon graduation, Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency will consider them for employment as firefighters. Females who already have their level 1 certification will also be considered.

Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency female firefighters and representatives of management will be going into the community this summer outlining entrance requirements and job responsibilities. The first of six information sessions will be held Thursday, June 2, 2005 at 7:00 p.m. at Cole Harbour Fire Hall, 1150 Cole Harbour Road, Dartmouth. Other outreach initiatives, such as open houses, will also be offered. The website www.halifax.ca/fire has all of the latest information on the information sessions.

Chief Eddy said “We are looking for professionals who want to be part of a progressive, innovative fire department. Our goal is to have a workforce that reflects the diversity of our community and women are encouraged to apply”.

A general recruitment process is expected to go forward this fall, as well. Please contact 490-5530 or our website at www.halifax.ca/fire.

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Chief Director Michael Eddy
Director, Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency
(902) 490-4238