Northern Development Minister Greg Rickford speaks with Dan McCormick, Chief Executive Officer of the District of Rainy River Services Board, September 14, 2023. Image: Randy Thoms/Acadia Broacasting

The District Services Board of Rainy River has $5.4 million to maintain land ambulance services.

It represents the provincial share of 100 per cent of costs to service the unorganized areas and First Nations communities and 50 per cent to service municipalities.

Chief Administrative Officer Dan McCormick says they could not operate without it.

“We’re getting $5.4 million here from the province, and that’s the 50-50 and the 100% funding. The municipalities are putting in about $2.5 million.

So, when you think, if you put that $5 million as a burden on the taxpayers, we’d be pretty broke,” says McCormick.

McCormick says it is a slight increase to the amount received in 2022.

“It covers the entire operation. So, it covers staffing in some aspects. Minister Rickford talked about community paramedicine. They are rolling some funding into our base, funding for that. They’ve realized what a valuable program that is across the district,” says McCormick.

Northern Development Minister Greg Rickford says the paramedicine program helps alleviate pressure in emergency rooms.

“Our government recognizes the unique challenges of providing urgent health care services in the northwest, especially for paramedics,” says Rickford. “Today’s Land Ambulance Service Grant announcement demonstrates our understanding and appreciation for Rainy River District Social Services Administration Board and the important services they provide to keep our communities healthy and safe.”