Portmore Fire Station to Get Facelift on Labour Day

The Portmore Fire Station in Waterford, St. Catherine is set to receive a well-needed facelift at a cost of $1.5 million, as part of activities for Labour Day.

The station, which currently serves the entire Municipality, has been selected as the major project for the Jamaica Fire Brigade.

Works to be done include painting, tiling, basic landscaping, tree planting, removal and replacement of some windows, doors and lighting and plumbing fixtures, and provision of comfort items.

State Minister in the Ministry of Local Government and Community Development, Hon. Colin Fagan, who was speaking at a press briefing at the Ministry on Monday, May 20, said the refurbishing of the fire station is a worthy cause, which will redound to the benefit of the entire community.

“Since this is the only station that serves the community of Portmore, it is very important that it is in good working condition,” he stated.

The State Minister informed that plans are in place for the establishment of a Youth Corps Firefighting Brigade, which will be housed at the station.

He said he is also working to revamp the station’s homework assistance programme and marching band, all in an effort to increase youth empowerment and community development.

“The work that will be done on Labour Day will go a far way in having the station ready for those activities,” he stated.

Mr. Fagan, who is also Member of Parliament for South East St Catherine encouraged all Portmore residents to “come out and lend a hand”.

“I invite all my constituents to come out on Thursday…I know we have very skilled tradesmen and women, who can assist us in this venture,” he said.

He extended gratitude to Berger Paints Jamaica Ltd., Sunlight Windows and Doors, and the Portmore Municipality Council, which have committed both cash and kind to the refurbishing of the fire station.

Commissioner, Jamaica Fire Brigade, Laurie Williams welcomed the project, noting that it will not only go a far way in improving the comfort level of the firefighters, but also in adding value to the core functions of fire and rescue services provided by the station.

Labour Day 2013 is being celebrated under the theme: ‘Lend a Hand… Build our Land’.

Contact: Athaliah Reynolds-Baker