The Ground Search and Rescue Inquiry in NL has publicly released its draft recommendations.
Commissioner, James Igloliorte recommends the province and federal governments in consultations with the policing both ground and marine search and rescue agencies arrive at a Memorandum of Understanding so that federal helicopter resources are available to support ground search and rescue operations equivalent to the availability in support of marine search and rescue.
The Commissioner is also recommending that provincial government undertake careful review of the 911 system and similar services with the goal of streamlining the existing process.
He’s also recommending that the provincial government provide funding for NL Search and Rescue Association which is largely reliant on volunteer services and funding for ground search and rescue.
Members of the association should also be eligible for certain benefits, including Workplace NL coverage, should they suffer an injury while on a police-sanctioned operation according to the Commissioner.