A benefit show being organized by the Canadian Volunteer Fire Service Association has nothing to do with Pembroke’s fire department.

In a press release, it was stated representatives of the CVFSA have been contacting residents to purchase tickets to the benefit, and when questioned, are claiming that the Pembroke Fire Department will receive some of the profits from this event.

“The Pembroke Fire Department wishes to advise that it is not organizing or benefiting from a benefit show being organized by the Canadian Volunteer Fire Service Association,“ the statement reads.

“If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the City of Pembroke Fire Department.”

The Canadian Volunteer Fire Services Association is a national organization created to benefit the community by maintaining and strengthening Canadian volunteer fire services through the provision of education and training, administration and organizational standards for volunteer firefighter units.

On the website for the concert promoter, Celsk Benefit Promotions Inc., it states a Blue Suede Revue Tribute to the 50’s and 60’s will be held Fri., Nov. 6, 8 p.m. at the Best Western Hotel in Pembroke, to benefit the Canadian Volunteer Fire Services Association.

While it is a legitimate organization, the telemarketing campaign to sell tickets for the group’s benefit concert have created confusion in other communities, where people are led to believe their local fire services will be benefitting from it.The Niagara Falls Review reported in March of this year the telemarketing pitch makes it sound like the money will benefit local firefighters, rather than just the national association.

For further information contact: Pembroke Fire Department 613-735-6821 ext. 1201

Stephen Uhler is a Daily Observer multimedia journalist 

stephen.uhler@sunmedia.ca