The diversity and vastness of Canada's landscapes offer a unique challenge when it comes to search and rescue (SAR) operations, and regular improvements are key to saving people when they are in distress.
Today, the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, President of the King's Privy Council for Canada and Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada, announced $72,227 in funding to the University of the Fraser Valley for their two-year initiative entitled Exploring the successes achieved and challenges faced by women members of Canadian SAR volunteer organizations.
Public Safety will fund the initiative through the Search and Rescue New Initiatives Fund (SAR NIF), which annually provides funding for projects that will improve Canada's search and rescue system.
Any fully trained and committed volunteer is extremely valuable and retaining them is of the utmost importance. With this new funding, the University of the Fraser Valley will conduct interviews and consult with SAR volunteer organizations to set out the experiences and challenges of SAR volunteers who are women.
This project will improve equity, inclusivity, and diversity within the SAR community with the overarching goal of strengthening it by increasing representation for underrepresented groups.
Canada's SAR system is built on the dedication and hard work of professionals and volunteers. The Government of Canada is committed to advancing search and rescue to minimize Canadians' risk of injury or loss of life.
