Every day across Canada, firefighters risk their lives to keep us safe. January is Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month, a time to recognize cancer as the leading cause of job-related deaths for firefighters in Canada. Firefighters' dangerous work often exposes them to toxic chemicals from burning materials and firefighting foams, leading to a higher risk of being diagnosed with cancer.
This heightened risk is unacceptable. Every day, firefighters put their lives at risk to protect our communities, and deserve to be protected themselves. This past October, I tabled the National Framework on Cancers Linked to Firefighting, which was developed following engagement with firefighter organizations, researchers, health care providers, Indigenous partners, federal departments, and all orders of government. Through the Framework, we will raise awareness of cancers linked to firefighting with the goal of improving firefighters' access to cancer prevention and treatment.
The Government of Canada also announced more than $12 million in funding to improve firefighter health and safety.
This funding will support the establishment of a National Firefighter Cancer Registry, led by Statistics Canada, to address data gaps and track health outcomes over time. Health Canada will also lead targeted research on cancers linked to firefighting to build scientific evidence for sub-populations of firefighters, including wildland firefighters. Investments will also support the development of standards for wildland firefighters to support improved occupational health and safety for their unique needs.
While we're making progress together with our partners, the Government of Canada recognizes that more work is needed to keep firefighters safe. These are important steps, but our work is not done. It is just getting started. Our commitment to protecting those who protect us remains unwavering.
As we observe Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month this January, we encourage everyone to show their appreciation for firefighters. Take a moment to thank a firefighter and to remember those who have tragically lost their lives in the line of duty. Together, we can honour their sacrifices and work towards a safer future.
The Honourable Mark Holland, P.C., M.P.
