Thank you, Mr. Chairman. In our report on the 1994-95 main estimates, the committee raised a concern
regarding the current mineral exploration rush including bulk sampling operations and mine safety.
The committee recognizes that mining is a dangerous occupation and that there is a need to improve our mine safety record. This, combined with the recent and anticipated growth in the mining industry, indicates that an increase in the number of mine safety inspectors is urgently required. As well, the committee recommended an increase in the number of occupational health and safety inspectors in the construction field to deal with the high rate of accidents in that industry.
The committee wishes to note the positive response by the government to the recommendation. The additional safety inspectors provided for in the 1995-96 main estimates should contribute significantly toward making the north a safer place to work.
Fire Safety Resources
Fire safety continues to be an important issue. Across the county, volunteer firefighters receive regular training. While the hope is that these volunteers will never have to use their training, frequent training and practice ensures they can fight fires effectively and safely when the need arises. In most northern communities, volunteer firefighters do not have access to regular training and instruction in firefighting and prevention. Without this work, there can be delays and coordination problems when inexperienced volunteers try to battle a fire in the community. It is crucial that the government identify some way of ensuring volunteer firefighters in the communities are not just willing to fight fires but be trained as well.
In previous years, the committee expressed concern about the NWT's poor fire safety record. There is special concern that initiatives of the fire marshal's office are not being felt at the community level. Committee Members acknowledge the department's announced plans to establish municipal firefighting training standards. However, the division of responsibilities between this department and the Department of Municipal and Community Affairs has to be clarified.