Trevor Morrissey has been hired as the new Chief of Fire Protective Services.
"Trevor has been employed with the City of Yorkton as Deputy Fire Chief since 2009. Prior to that, for twelve years, Trevor held progressive positions in Fire Protective Services in Thompson, Manitoba," said Yorkton Mayor Bob Maloney at a press conference Monday.
Morrissey, who assumed the position effective March 19, replaces Dean Clark who parted company with the City earlier this year after 13 years as its head.
Maloney said Morrissey has held a variety of positions with the local department.
"During his career Trevor has held positions such as Deputy Chief, Fire Prevention and Public Education; Training Officer of Fire and EMS Operations; and Emergency Services Firefighter and Paramedic," he said.
And Morrissey has also undertaken varied training through the years, said Maloney.
"Trevor took his National Fire Protection Association accredited training through the Brandon Fire College, graduating in 1997. Trevor also attained his Lakeland College (Alberta) Bachelor
Degree in Emergency Services in 2009," he said.
Morrissey said he was "humbled to accept the position," adding he was "looking forward to moving forward" with the department.
In terms of fire protection Morrissey said the local department is as good as it gets. He said it is a "crew that is second to none.
"I'd put the department up against any across Canada."
Morrissey said the firefighters in the city are "very well-trained," adding Yorkton Council has been very supportive in building the modern fire hall, and supplying the equipment for a modern force.
At present there are 16 full-time union firefighters, supported by four temporary fighters, also union members, with eight auxiliary firefighters providing operation support.
Morrissey said when he looks forward, he sees a big part of his role as "advocating for the City," adding he wants to see a safe community. He said he sees the department's prevention and inspection programming "really ramping up.
"It's something I've built since I've been here. I see that expanding.
"My own theory is I'd rather prevent than respond."
With Morrissey moving up in the local ranks, a vacancy now exists for one of the two Deputy Chief spots, the other being Greg Litvanyi.
Maloney said the deputy position will be posted both internally and beyond in the coming days.
Fourteen applications were received for the Fire Chief's position, with Morrissey being one of four interviewed.
Morrissey is married to Teena and they have three children.
