Former Oakville Deputy Fire Chief first female to head up Belleville fire department

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Published June 8, 2021 at 2:29 pm

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Oakville Deputy Fire Chief Monique Belair has been named Belleville’s first ever female fire chief.

A skilled firefighter with more than 30 years of experience, Belair spent seven years in the role of Deputy Fire Chief with the City of St. Catharines and most recently the Town of Oakville.

Belair takes over for Mark MacDonald and will begin her new position as Director of Fire and Emergency Services and Fire Chief, effective June 28.

“The vast experience I have obtained from working with such a broad range of communities has provided me with unique opportunities to observe the diversity of fire service, identify risks specific to a community and contribute to the enhancement of fire protection services,” Belair said.

“As the City of Belleville’s Fire Services Leader, I am committed to this exciting new challenge and look forward to fostering an open, collaborative and productive relationship with my deputies, the training and prevention teams and firefighters for the provision of fire protection services and becoming a visible and integral part of the Belleville community.”

Belair started here career as one of five female firefighters serving in the Canadian Armed Forces and would build on her portfolio serving in different roles within the fire services including communications, prevention, public education, investigation and training.

She also took on leadership roles within the Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management and is a strong advocate for promoting diversity and inclusivity, demonstrating her commitment through several initiatives including bringing Camp Molly to the Halton Region for young females.

“We are very pleased that Monique Belair has accepted the position of Director of Fire and Emergency Services in Belleville,” said Rod Bovay, CAO, City of Belleville. “Chief Belair’s extensive experience includes working in communities which have ranged from the farthest northern rural regions to large urban city centres.

“In addition to her leadership role in Fire and Emergency Services, the City’s Executive Management Team welcomes her to the team and looks forward to benefitting from the valuable insight and experience she will contribute to the group.”

 

 

CITY OF BELLEVILLE PHOTO

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