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Volunteer firefighters need designated licence plates, says Leggett
By Liz Dadson

Kincardine council

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Volunteer firefighters in Ontario should have the same opportunity as full-time firefighters in applying for designated licence plates for their personal vehicles.

That was the intent of a motion put forward by Kincardine councillor Mike Leggett at the meeting Wednesday night (Feb. 3). However, it fell a bit short because there is no such thing as a designated licence plate for volunteer firefighters.

Deputy mayor Laura Haight pointed this out, saying currently the Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) issues special plates to members of the Ontario Professional Firefighters Association who are full-time firefighters and belong to a union.

Kincardine fire chief Jamie MacKinnon said the Fire Service Society used to have plates issued as a fund-raiser for charity causes. But there is nothing for volunteer firefighters, he said.

"So, what we want to ask is that the MTO create a new category and establish a designated licence plate for volunteer firefighters," said Haight.

Leggett agreed, and amended the motion to state that.

Councillor Gordon Campbell said he saw no advantage in firefighters having these plates because they already have a green light on their vehicles, and most people wouldn't notice the designated plate anyway.

 "Those green lights are in the windshield," said councillor Marsha Leggett. "I do look at licence plates and I would notice a special plate."

Councillor Guy Anderson asked if this would cost the municipality any money, and was told "No."

"I see no disadvantage to having these licence plates," said mayor Larry Kraemer.

Council agreed to support the motion, noting the licence plates would assist volunteer firefighters in responding to emergency events due to better recognition from the motoring public.

A copy of the resolution will go to the Association of Municipalities of Ontario for distribution and support from all Ontario municipalities, as well as to transportation minister Kathleen Wynne.

 
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Sunday, February 07, 2010