NDP calls for expansion of search and rescue services

New Democrats strongly support the expansion of search and rescue response services across Canada and urge the Conservative government to take all necessary action to ensure Canada meets international standards, in particular a 30-minute response time, 24/7.

“For years, the NDP has been fighting for high-alert, around-the-clock search and rescue services for Canadians with the full 30-minute standard,” said National Defence critic Jack Harris (St. John’s East). “We welcome the news that the Department of National Defence is considering an expansion of search and rescue services, but the Harper government has to ensure the necessary funds, personnel and equipment are made available.”

Recent reports of a DND study on the feasibility of implementing 30-minute, 24/7 search and rescue response times are the first indication that Stephen Harper is acting in this direction. In 2012, the Conservatives defeated a motion from Harris that called for Canada to adopt this international search and rescue standard.

“Search and rescue response times are critical not only in my province of Newfoundland and Labrador, but from coast to coast to coast,” said Harris. “What’s needed now is political will. We call on the Harper government to complete this critical work as soon as possible to set the stage for implementation.”