News Release
May 12, 2022

Today, Mayor John Tory led Toronto City Council in recognizing all the first responders from the Toronto Police Service, Toronto Fire Services and Toronto Paramedic Services for their dedication, courage and hard work throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as their ongoing efforts to keep Torontonians safe.

The month of May is of particular significance for emergency and first responders, as there are several opportunities to honour their contributions: First Responders Day on May 1, International Firefighters’ Day on May 4, National Police Week from May 15 to 21 and Toronto Paramedic Services Week from May 22 to 28.

Representatives from each of the services attended today’s presentation at City Council, including Chief Matthew Pegg of Toronto Fire Services, Chief Paul Raftis of Toronto Paramedic Services and Acting Deputy Chief Kim Yeandle of the Toronto Police Service.

Toronto’s Police, Paramedic and Fire services provide life-saving services 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In addition to responding to crises daily, Toronto’s first responders played an essential role supporting Team Toronto in confronting the COVID-19 pandemic at vaccines at clinics across the city. They also adapted to the evolving pandemic landscape and responded to the needs of Toronto residents with unwavering dedication. These efforts were highlighted in a video featuring remarks from Chief James Ramer of the Toronto Police Service, Chief Pegg and Chief Raftis.

Watch the City Council session and presentation on YouTube.

View all 2022 proclamations, including for First Responders Day, International Firefighters’ Day and National Police Week on the City’s website.

Quotes:

“I am proud to recognize the tireless efforts of our city’s first responders, who have shown courage and dedication, not only throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, but every day. Every single day members of our Toronto Police, Toronto Fire and Toronto Paramedics are on the frontlines answering the call to help keep our residents and our city safe. Today when we recognize their work we are showcasing our gratitude for all that they have done to keep our city safe and healthy. I invite all Torontonians to join me in showing our appreciation to these frontline heroes, who put their lives on the line when we need them most.”
– Mayor John Tory

“The dedication and professionalism of Toronto’s first responders is why our city is one of the safest in the world. This was proven in the face of COVID-19, when their commitment never wavered. I’ve never been more proud of the hard work of Toronto Police Service members – both uniform and civilian.”
– Chief James Ramer, Toronto Police Service

“It is my sincere honour and privilege to acknowledge and thank this team of dedicated professionals that provides world class fire protection, and other emergency services in Canada’s largest and most diverse City. Never more than in the last two years in response to the COVID-19 pandemic has their commitment to public service been evident. I am very proud and thankful for all that they do each and every day, and for the unparalleled level of cooperation and collaboration between Toronto Police, Toronto Paramedics, Toronto Office of Emergency Management and Toronto Fire Services.”
– Chief Matthew Pegg, Toronto Fire Services

“On behalf of all Toronto Paramedic Services staff, I want to thank Mayor Tory and Members of Council for their recognition and continued support for Toronto’s first responders. I could not be more proud of our Paramedics, Call Takers, Emergency Medical Dispatchers, Support and Leadership teams for their dedication and courage, not only through the pandemic but every day of the year.”
– Chief Paul Raftis, Toronto Paramedic Services

Toronto is home to more than 2.9 million people whose diversity and experiences make this great city Canada’s leading economic engine and one of the world’s most diverse and livable cities. As the fourth largest city in North America, Toronto is a global leader in technology, finance, film, music, culture and innovation, and consistently places at the top of international rankings due to investments championed by its government, residents and businesses. For more information visit the City’s website or follow us on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook.

Media Relations