KINGSTON, June 14 (JIS):                                                            

The Jamaica Fire Brigade (JFB) is to receive two new Rosenbauer fire trucks, valued at US$1.15 million.

Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Hon. Desmond McKenzie, signed the contract for the purchase, at his Hagley Park Road offices in Kingston, on June 13.

Mr.  McKenzie said the Government is resolute in ensuring that the fleet of the JFB is improved as well as the physical condition under which the men and women of the service have to operate islandwide.

            “These trucks are badly needed, as there are a number of stations across the island without a working fire unit. It is the intention of the Government to correct this, and we’ll be working assiduously, so that the JFB can provide quality service,” he said.

            He lauded the men and women of the JFB, who have been giving yeoman service despite the challenges. He noted that their service went beyond just dealing with fires.

            “We have seen a significant increase in major motor-vehicle crashes across the island, and the Fire Brigade has to assist in removing people from some of the vehicles,” the Minister said. 

            Meanwhile, Acting Commissioner of the JFB, Raymond Spencer, said he is particularly pleased that the brigade will be getting the new trucks, as the service is operating with 82 per cent of its fleet, with trucks more than 10 years old, rendering the delivery of emergency service uncertain.       

“This will improve the response capability of the fire service, making them more effective and efficient in responding to requests for emergency assistance,” he said.

For his part, Chief Executive Officer of National Fire Safety Limited, Julian Templar, noted that, over the years, the company has sought to acquire the best vehicles for the JFB.

              “The vehicles we’re signing for are, in the opinion of most, very suited for the Jamaican circumstance. We will continue to fine-tune the vehicles and their features, so that the Jamaica fire service can receive the very best that is available on the world market,” he said.

The new trucks, which are built to specifications, are expected to be delivered by mid-September 2017.

CONTACT: RODGER HUTCHINSON