Central York Fire Services welcomes new fire chief

Central York Fire Services welcomes new fire chief

Ian Laing to replace retired fire Chief John Molyneaux

NEWMARKET, ON, December 24, 2009 - Central York Fire Services (CYFS) is pleased to announce that, effective January 4, 2010, Ian Laing of Mississauga Fire and Emergency Services will replace John Molyneaux as Fire Chief for the department which services Aurora and Newmarket.

 "We wish former Chief John Molyneaux all the best in his well deserved retirement, his numerous contributions to our fire services over his 35 year career will not be forgotten," says Newmarket Councillor Chris Emanuel, Vice-Chair of Joint Council Committee (JCC). "We would also like to extend a warm welcome to our incoming Chief Ian Laing, we look forward to his expertise and to the many years of experience that he brings to CYFS."

 Laing joins Central York Fire Services with over 34 years of experience with Mississauga Fire and Emergency Services. Positions he has held throughout his extensive career include: Firefighter, Captain, District Chief, Assistant Deputy Chief and Acting Deputy Chief.

 As the new Fire Chief for CYFS, Ian Laing will continue the implementation of the Master Fire Plan. He will work closely with Deputy Chief's Paul Leslie and Robert Comeau to lead the department.

 "With the finalization of the Master Fire Plan and a number of major initiatives underway, he will begin the next chapter for CYFS", says Aurora Councillor Al Wilson, Chair of JCC.

 "Central York Fire Services is renowned across the province for their unique collaborative approach to fire services," says Laing. "I look forward to working with the forward-thinking management team and staff."

 Laing brings a wide range of skills and knowledge to the department. His many accomplishments include: International Director of the Fire Department Safety Officers Association, Editorial Advisory Board for Fire Chief Magazine, a diploma in Public Administration from University of Western Ontario, Industrial Relations certificate from Queens University and a certificate in Canadian Public Administration from Ryerson Polytechnic University.