Jamaica Fire Brigade gets 103 new members
TOWER ISLE, St. Mary: The 103 new recruits of the Jamaica Fire Brigade (JFB) have been tasked with increasing the value of the special agency to the people of Jamaica.
“You have taken on a tremendous responsibility, to maintain and enhance the esteem in which the JFB is held, and to increase the value of this,” read remarks from Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Honourable Desmond McKenzie.
“Your value, however, goes beyond firefighting and fire protection. You are now members of a noble profession, and of an institution that has built up high traditions and public respect over the last 151 years. Your uniform is a powerful symbol of discipline, efficiency, and credibility – qualities that the Fire Brigade is associated with all over this country.”
Minister McKenzie was represented by Mr. Junior Rose, the Ministry’s Senior Director of Strategic Planning and Policy Research.
The new firefighters- 86 men and 17 women- were officially presented during a graduation ceremony on December 9 at the Madge Saunders Conference Centre in Tower Isle, St. Mary.
The Minister also reassured the new firefighters that they will be able to respond to the challenges of the profession with confidence, as the leadership of the JFB and the Government are investing in the agency’s transformation to include the construction and renovation of fire stations.
“More equipment is being obtained to continue the modernization of the Brigade. Your ability to prevent fires through building inspections, public education, fire investigations, and hydrant maintenance is being expanded,” noted Minister McKenzie.
“The new structure of the JFB approved by the Ministry of Finance, is facilitating a new level of service through the Fire Safety Prevention and Investigation Division.”
He also underscored that the graduates are entering the JFB Jamaica at one of the most exciting points in its history.
“You will become part of the change that is taking place, and I am confident that you will make your mark. You have made a highly consequential career choice,” the Minister stated.
“I am grateful to you for your decision to give national service through the Jamaica Fire Brigade. I pray that you will achieve every success, as you give your all in the service of your fellow citizens.”
The new cohort of firefighters were also exposed to disciplines such as Nuclear and Radiation Emergencies; Water Rescue; Electric Hybrid Motor Vehicle Response; and Emergency Medical Technician Training prior to their graduation.
They represent the 25th Intake of recruits into the Brigade.
