Local Government Minister Commends Fire Service

Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Hon. Desmond McKenzie, says members of the Jamaica Fire Brigade continue to perform their duties with diligence, despite the numerous challenges they face.

Speaking at a meeting with representatives of the fire service, on March 16, Mr. McKenzie said the men and women continue to perform under adverse conditions, and they should be commended.

“I know the constraints, because of a lack of equipment. I have been to several fire stations and the services that you offer tell of the love and commitment to the country,” he told the firefighters.

The Minister said the new Administration is aware of the conditions of work and so during the coming months, he will be personally engaging a number of stakeholders, who have indicated to him their willingness to contribute in providing various facilities.

“The amount of documentation and calls that I have been getting about how many trucks they can provide, I am willing to sit and listen. I know the challenges are there, I know that the units are limited, some are extremely old and some of them cannot match up to the demands. I can assure you that any discussion held, you will be a part of it,” he added.

Mr. McKenzie emphasised that the fire service has to be placed in a position that it will be able to support the Government’s growth agenda, as fire is a costly, debilitating burden on the society, which not only creates economic hardship, but dislocates production in a very significant way.