Saturday, August 16, 2025

Advocating for a Provincial Volunteer Firefighter Tax Credit

The Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs (OAFC) lends its support to CLAC’s proposal to the Ontario government

Ontario Emergency Services Emergency Medical Services

Your CLAC representative team has been actively engaging with the Ontario government to secure a provincial volunteer firefighter tax credit—a financial recognition that mirrors the federal volunteer firefighter tax credit of $6,000. This credit would acknowledge the time, training, and commitment you and your fellow volunteers bring to your communities.

We are very pleased to share that the OAFC issued a strong letter of support for our proposal. In their words: “Volunteer firefighters are vital to public safety across Ontario. . . . Matching the federal tax credit is a practical, meaningful way for the province to acknowledge and support these essential front-line responders and improve recruitment and retention.”

The OAFC’s endorsement strengthens our advocacy and sends a clear message to the province about the importance of recognizing the service of volunteer firefighters—not just in words, but through meaningful financial support. We will continue these positive conversations with government leaders and partners to push for this initiative in upcoming budget considerations.

Ian DeWaard, Ontario and Manitoba director, attended the AMO Annual Conference in Ottawa again this year and had an opportunity to connect with members of the OAFC. Pictured above are Rob Grimwood (deputy fire chief, OAFC president), Andrea DeJong (deputy fire chief, OAFC secretary), Ian DeWaard, Jeremy Parkin (fire chief, OAFC vice-president), and Mark MacDonald (OAFC executive director).

Advocating for a Provincial Volunteer Firefighter Tax Credit

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