The Moncton Fire Department (MFD) regrettably announces the passing of Fire Prevention Officer Michael (Mike) Swetnam, Sunday, January 13, 2008, at the Moncton Hospital. He had only just recently received the diagnosis of cancer.

"Mike's passing leaves a tremendous void within our Fire Department. He was a truly dedicated and caring professional. His 37 years of faithful service to the department were exemplary," said the Fire Chief, Eric Arsenault.

"It is always a sad day when we lose one of our employees, especially when their chosen profession constantly requires them to be courageous in order to protect our city and its residents. I extend my most heartfelt condolences to Mr. Swetnam's family and to the entire Fire Department," added Mayor Lorne Mitton.

In December 2007, the Province of New Brunswick passed Bill 12, an Act to amend the Worker's Compensation Act. This amendment provides for presumption legislation for New Brunswick fire fighters (full-time or volunteer) for certain cancers whereby the cancer is presumed to be an occupational disease arising out of and in the course of employment as a fire fighter. Mr. Swetnam is the first fire fighter in the province to pass away due to cancer since the enactment of the amendment. The Moncton Fire Department therefore considers Mr. Swetnam's passing a "Line-of-Duty Death", and as such he will receive full honours at his funeral. Out of respect for their fallen comrade, the Moncton Fire Department was in a 30-day mourning period. As well, in recognition of Mr Swetnam's faithful service to the MFD, his family will be receiving the International Association of Fire Fighters' (IAFF) Medal of Honor.

Mr. Swetnam joined the Moncton Fire Department in January 1971, acting as a duty firefighter until 2002, when he accepted the position of Fire Prevention Officer, which he held until the time of his death. He will always be remembered as a friend, a brother fire fighter who devoted his life in serving the citizens of Moncton. Mike answered his final alarm on January 13, 2008

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