Motor Vehicle Regulations Passed

New regulations that waive vehicle registration fees and provide special licence plates for volunteer firefighters and members of ground search and rescue organizations are now in effect.

"We are recognizing the unique effort of thousands of Nova Scotians who voluntarily put themselves at risk to help their friends and neighbours, even people they've never met," said Neil LeBlanc, Minister of Business and Consumer Services. "To recognize their dedication, I am honouring our government's commitment to waive the $114 fee for their two-year vehicle permit and introducing new licence plates for these groups."

The changes went into effect on Wednesday, Dec. 1, and benefit the province's 9,000 volunteer firefighters and 1,500 ground search and rescue volunteers.

"These volunteers are highly trained men and women, willing to put their lives on the line whenever and wherever they are needed," said Labour Minister Ron Russell.

"The distinctive licence plates are a symbol of our appreciation for the job they do," said Jamie Muir, Minister responsible for the Emergency Measures Act. "These new plates will make it clear that these people are emergency workers and ensure their access to restricted areas during emergencies."

Upon expiration of their current vehicle registration, volunteer firefighters and ground search and rescue members will qualify for the vehicle registration waiver and new licence plate. To be eligible, applicants must be an active volunteer firefighter or ground search and rescue team member for a minimum of 12 months. Application forms will be available from fire chiefs, search directors, Registry of Motor Vehicles offices and Access Nova Scotia centres. Over the next two-year period, all volunteer members should have the plate in place.

Mr. LeBlanc urged volunteers to be patient while the province distributes the new licence plates; currently, there are enough plates to satisfy December renewals.

"As we get more plates, we will look at a quick and convenient way to distribute the plates to the volunteers," said Mr. LeBlanc.

There are 314 volunteer fire departments throughout the province responding to more than 5,000 fire, rescue and medical emergency calls each year. Twenty-three ground search and rescue teams conduct between 60 and 70 searches a year.

For additional information, call 902-424-5851 in Halifax or toll- free at 1-800-898-7668 outside the metro area.