Mr. Speaker, I rise today to salute the incredible work of North Shore Rescue.
Originally established as a civil defence unit in 1965, North Shore Rescue quickly evolved into a specialized, well-trained and highly effective search and rescue team comprising entirely volunteers.
Their focus on mountain, helicopter and urban search and rescue and public education provides life-saving services all year round.
Last year I was pleased to present founding member Karl Winter with a Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal in recognition of more than 50 years of contributions to this service.
Recently the combined efforts of rescue team leader Tim Jones and our government also helped to speedily resolve a regulatory problem with helicopter long line equipment. This quick action saved lives and is a testament to the importance of teamwork.
On behalf of the outdoor sports enthusiasts who enjoy North Vancouver's gorgeous terrain, I want to thank the North Shore Rescue team for its ongoing commitment to our safety and security, and send big congratulations on its new state-of-the-art command centre.