The premier is commending the work of volunteer firefighters, both on a regular basis and for the extraordinary work being done this summer to help save lives and properties.

Hogan says as a result of the sacrifices made by volunteers in light of a summer fire season like no other, a plan is in place to have volunteer firefighters compensated for the work they do.

“So the government of Newfoundland and Labrador will be taking measures to compensate volunteer firefighters for these extraordinary circumstances. We have to recognize the volunteer firefighters who possess the necessary training to aide in this wildfire relief.”

Hogan says that includes the many other jobs required including traffic control to after-burn cleanup.

Hogan got emotional when commending the work volunteers have been doing.

“And I recognize this is not a normal situation, and we can’t treat this as anywhere near normal. So I will have more to say on that in the coming days, very soon.”

Choking back tears Hogan acknowledged “I want all the volunteer firefighters to know, we appreciate the sacrifice and the efforts, and we will always be there for them. You’ve had our backs and we’ll have yours.”