COWICHAN – BC NDP MLA Debra Toporowski says the Cowichan Tribes will be better prepared for emergencies with provincial funding for emergency operations centres.

“Having the necessary equipment is key to managing emergencies and keeping people safe and healthy in our community,” said Debra Toporowski, MLA for Cowichan Valley. “This funding will ensure the Cowichan Tribes have the equipment they need to manage emergency stations better and support people through the most difficult times.”

The Cowichan Tribes are receiving $40,000 for 2025 emergency operations centre equipment.

The Province is providing nearly $7 million to support 139 emergency operation centre projects, benefiting 183 communities. These funds will purchase supplies and fund training and exercises to support staff and boost response capacity. 

Emergency operations centres (EOC) coordinate people, actions and resources, and support first responders on the ground. They also ensure people receive timely information, shelter assistance and other vital services throughout an emergency.

Since 2017, the Province has invested $369 million into the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund. Including this intake, more than $342 million has been provided to First Nations and local governments for more than 2500 projects. Since 2017, approximately $23 million has been invested to support local emergency operations centres. This fund is administered through the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM).

Learn more: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2025EMCR0026-000555