Statement on Auditor General’s Report on Provincial Fire Safety Management

NOTE: The following is a statement from John Lohr, Minister responsible for the Office of the Fire Marshal

First, we respect the findings of the Auditor General and accept the recommendations provided.

Nova Scotians can be assured staff in the Office of the Fire Marshal are professionals who are focused and dedicated to protecting people from fires and ensuring buildings are safe.

We recognize we can improve on some of our administrative processes, and I assure you that work is underway. It’s our commitment to the Auditor General and all Nova Scotians.

Each year, Nova Scotia’s deputy fire marshals visit more than 1,300 buildings, generating inspection reports and orders to take action, as well as documents and correspondence to promote and support fire and building safety in Nova Scotia.

The office also conducts training activities, reviews building plans and responds to close to 200 requests a year from municipal fire departments and police for support, including more than 75 fire investigations annually.

It’s important to remember that fire safety is a shared responsibility. Each one of us has a role to play.

Among the many strengths of the office are the successful partnerships and strong relationships cultivated over many years with fire services across the province, our municipal partners, building owners and other stakeholders.

Working together with a shared purpose is how we are delivering on our mandate every day.