Chief Fire Officer (Ag), Gregory Wickham was today involved in a contract signing with the Minister of Home Affairs, Hon. Robeson Benn, Permanent Secretary, Ms. Mae Toussaint Jr. Thomas, and several contractors to the tune of $485.6 million.

Contracts were awarded for the construction of a new Wales Fire Station, the installation of fire hydrants and for the procurement of five new firefighting vehicles.

Minister of Home Affairs during opening remarks stated that the initiative signals a continued effort to rebuild and enhance the agencies that fall under the Ministry’s umbrella.

He noted that building a fire station in Wales is one way of keeping ahead of the curve, given that the Gas-to-Shore Project would soon be developed in the area.

In relation to the five new firefighting vehicles, these will provide coverage not only in urban areas and on the coast but also to critical interior locations.

Minister Benn also emphasized that projects must be completed on time, according to their specifications, and be of the highest quality.

He also noted that persons working on these projects need to be safe and equip themselves with the necessary safety gear to avoid accidents.

Also present at the signing were Deputy Commissioner ‘Operations’(ag) Mr. Ravindradat Budhram, Director of Prisons (ag) Mr. Nicklon Elliot, contractors, engineers, and members of the media.

Contracts were also awarded for the construction of Police Command Centers, Senior Living Quarters and a security fence at the Lusignan Prison.