Pincourt council has reinstated 'Firefighers' Day' as the official name of its annual midsummer celebration.

The change comes almost 24 hours after the town issued a press release on May 23 announcing that Firefighters' Day was being changed to Pincourt Day. 

Many residents immediately took to social media to complain about the unexpected change. 

The annual event celebrates the important role firefighters and emergency service personnel play not only in Pincourt, but in other municipalities throughout the Vaudreuil-Soulanges region. 

This is evident especially during the parade of emergency vehicles as they slowly snake along the town's streets with their sirens blaring. Spectators line the parade route waving and cheering on their heroes. 

Emergency vehicles from other regions including Kahnawake also participate in the event.

Their arrival at Bellevue Park at the end of the route officially kicks off other festivities held at the park including various children's actvities and live musical entertainment.  A brilliant late-evening fireworks display caps off the event.

"We are proud of our firefighters and first responders and together we will continue to celebrate their dedication and honour their legacy on the next Firefighters' Day in Pincourt," said Mayor Claude Comeau.

"I would also like to acknowledge the work of all the employees and volunteers involved in making this special day a success every year," Comeau added.

The six municipal council members all acknowledged that many residents were unhappy with the renaming of Firefighters' Day to Pincourt Day and decided to reinstate the original name.

"We would like to emphasize it was never our intention to cast a shadow on our local heroes who dedicate themselves every day to protecting our community," they wrote in a joint press release.

"We recognize their exceptional dedication and courage and regret any confusion or misunderstanding the name change may have caused. The name of this day carries a rich history and also pays tribute to the men and women who have served in the fire service over the years," they said.

"We know that this day of festivities is not only special, but also very dear to all the citizens of Pincourt, as well as the participants who come from all over to attend," they added.

Council also acknowledged and thanked its citizens for their civic engagement and for the many messages they sent. "Your voices have been heard and we have taken the necessary steps to rectify this situation," they said. 

The 41st edition of Firefighters' Day will be held on August 12 at Bellevue Park. More details about the parade route and day's activities are available on the town's website.

Related articles: 

Residents voice their opinions regarding name change to Pincourt Day

Town announces line-up for Pincourt Day