Improvements to the Provincial Integrated Communication System infrastructure and equipment will contribute to improved protection for people and property, says Environment, Labour and Justice Minister and Attorney General Janice Sherry.

“An upgrade to our ageing system will provide more effective safety and security for both first responders and citizens,” said Minister Sherry. “Our first responders work every day to ensure the safety of Islanders, and I am proud that the Government of Prince Edward Island has made this commitment to ensure they have the necessary equipment to do their job in the most safe and effective way.”

Government is working with Bell Mobility to implement the new mobile radio system. Currently some departments, agencies and first responders in Prince Edward Island use the Provincial Integrated Communications System (PICS) mobile radio system, but many are unable to use it due to the limited coverage and reliability of the outdated technology. The new public safety radio system may be used by authorized user groups including public safety and public utility service providers at both the municipal and federal levels. It will enable communications among first response agencies currently not possible with today’s system.

Acting Commanding Officer of RCMP on Prince Edward Island Superintendent Joanne Crampton said, “We are very pleased to see the modernization of our radio system move forward with the assistance of the provincial government. It is key that our first responders have access to the best possible tools in their day-to-day work. Efficient communication is vital to those involved in emergency situations, and the information transferred from party to party is often of a highly sensitive nature. This new system will allow for easier and more secure access between the right parties to get the job done.”

“At Island EMS and Medacom Atlantic, our business is truly driven by the principle of safety – safety for the patients that we care for and safety for our crews,” said Tim Coolen, President of Island EMS. “With the improved infrastructure, our highly skilled paramedics and Communications Officers will now have increased coverage and longer range communications allowing for further collaboration with other emergency services and continue to provide the highest quality of care to the communities we serve.”

Minister Sherry says the department hopes the new system will be operational by late fall of 2015.