News and event information for Williams Lake, BC - as it happens.

The federal government announced last week that a new non-refundable tax credit for volunteer firefighters has been put into effect. The non-refundable tax credit is available to any volunteer firefighter who serves at least 200 hours per year at one or more fire departments beginning on January 1, 2011.

(Wildwood Deputy Fire Chief Randy Worsley, pictured with the Wildwood fire fighters at their open house, says that it’s great to see volunteers fire fighters get a bit of a break.)

The Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of National Revenue, accompanied by Bob Zimmer, Member of Parliament for Prince George - Peace River and Dick Harris, Member of Parliament for Cariboo - Prince George, visited the Pineview Firehall in Prince George a few days ago to promote the credit.

Minister Shea said that the Canadian Government recognizes the selfless efforts that nearly 85,000 men and women across the country contribute to their communities. "Our volunteer firefighters are important members of our community and we can't thank them enough for the invaluable work they do for the residents of Prince George," said Bob Zimmer, and MP Dick Harris said that he is delighted with the announcement.

Fire fighting services that qualify for the 200 hours include responding to and being on call for firefighting and other emergencies, attending meetings at the fire department, and taking courses in preventing and putting out fires. When an eligible firefighter claims the credit, they can reduce income taxes they have paid or will owe at tax time by as much as $450.

“It costs money to be a volunteer, and after the sacrifices these guys make five times a week at 2:00am, it’s nice to see the government giving us a little bit of a break,” stated Wildwood Deputy Fire Chief Randy Worsley, who has been a volunteer fire fighter for 25 years this year.

“These volunteers put their hearts and souls into this, and maybe this will encourage more people to want to get involved—new members at the Wildwood Fire Department are always welcome.”

| More...