– focusing on training, re-tooling, and public education

UNDER the theme, “Enhancing and modernising the Guyana Fire Service through training, re-tooling, and public education,” the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) commenced its Annual Officers’ Conference on Monday. A team building workshop for the officers will commence today.

The conference saw presentations from senior officers of the Guyana Fire Service and was attended by Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn; GDF Chief of Staff, Godfrey Bess; Commissioner of Police, Clifton Hicken; Director of Prisons, Nicklon Elliott; Head of CANU, James Singh; Chief Fire Officer (CFO), Gregory Wickham; senior officers of the GFS, and other special invitees.

During his opening remarks, CFO Wickham highlighted that in keeping with the theme, the administration has heavily emphasised training.

He mentioned that over 200 ranks have recently received training in various areas including middle management, heavy-duty training, and defensive driving courses, to name a few.
The CFO further noted a great need for public education, which the GFS is working assiduously to satisfy.

He said the deliberations coming out of the two-day conference are expected to provide the administration with a guide towards achieving the 10-point improvement plan, which will undoubtedly ensure that the GFS is enhanced and strategically placed in a position where it can protect the nation against all loss and destruction by fire.

Meanwhile, Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn stated during brief remarks that it is necessary to recognise the current service gaps to remedy them.

Minister Benn also emphasised the expansion of the service in order to address the national challenge of protecting against fire, loss of life, destruction, and injuries related to fire.

In closing, he encouraged the administration to utilise its resources in the most effective way possible and to be prepared for the vast developments in infrastructure and the overall country as the oil and gas sector continues to flourish.

The conference will continue today with further presentations and a team building workshop for the officers.