Fire Service to be upgraded

Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Hon. Noel Arscott, says the Government is committed to upgrading the fire service across the island.

Speaking at a specially convened meeting of the St. Ann Parish Council on February 8, Mr. Arscott pointed out that approximately 120 recruits graduated to join the Jamaica Fire Brigade, recently, and another 120 are to begin their training on March 1.

Emphasising that the new recruits are academically qualified, Mr. Arscott said that the improvement of the fire service is a priority item on the government’s agenda.

“Whether we are going to beg, furbish or borrow, we have to do some upgrading,” he said, citing the provision of equipment in the service as a major part of the drive.

While not giving a timeframe for the improvement, the Minister said he is giving an assurance that he will be working assiduously to make it happen.

Mr. Arscott said the provision of fire boats in towns with shipping ports is also being given serious attention.

By Bryan Miller, JIS Reporter