No regrets for criticizing St. John's rescue cuts
CBC News
Posted: Aug 12, 2011 12:59 PM NT
Last Updated: Aug 12, 2011 12:59 PM NT
The Maritime Rescue Sub-Centre in St. John's, which answers hundreds of calls for help annually, operates out of the coast guard station. (Courtesy DFO) A Halifax Search and Rescue employee, suspended over his criticism of the closure of the Maritime Rescue Sub-Centre in St. John's, is speaking out.
Jason Hamilton was put on paid administrative leave in July after officials saw a video he posted to YouTube. In it, he questioned the thinking behind the plan to consolidate rescue co-ordination in Halifax.
He was re-instated in early August, without penalty.
Hamilton believes he deserved his job back because he did nothing wrong.
"This is just my personal opinion, I don't think there was a lot of thought into basic human rights and I think that there were some lines that were crossed," said Hamilton.
In fact, he said he would do it all again.
"I can't say I would change anything. I'm very grateful for all the public support and attention that's been given to me," Hamilton said.
He's one of six maritime search and rescue support officers scheduled to lose their jobs next June.
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