The Port Hood Volunteer Fire Department is welcoming a new Fire Chief.

The new chief, Shaun MacDonald has been with the department for six years and was Deputy Chief for the last four years.

He says taking the position last week was a natural progression and he looks forward to helping out with community functions.

“Well, it’s a big void. Donald Beaton had 26 years in as a chief, and he’s going to remain as a firefighter,” commented MacDonald.

“I’m sure that’s a lot of knowledge there that’s leaving the position, but he will help me with anything that’s happening in the future and make it an easy transition.”

He adds Beaton was probably one of the longest serving chiefs he’s aware of and he did a great job giving his time and commitment.

Beaton assisted with fires and accidents for 26 years as chief and a total of 42 years as a firefighter with the department.

He says he’s staying on as a fireman, but it was a little hard to change positions.

“I’d like to thank you at the community and all the firemen for putting up with me for 26 years. I think I was very fair to them all and I did my best for them and the community, so I left them in good shape when I did step down,” stated Beaton.

He adds that the new Chief Shaun MacDonald is retired, so he has lots of free time needed for the volunteer role.