The President of the Republic Mr. Wavel Ramkalawan honoured a team of SFRSA officers yesterday afternoon at State House. The event was a courtesy call to the President to recognize the valiant efforts of the SFRSA officers who attended to the ammonia leak incident on June 15th as well as honour retired Chief Fire Officer Mr. Albert Rose.
Mr. Rose served for 45 years with the agency and retired in July. In his remarks the Minister for Internal Mr. Charles E. Fonseka described Mr. Rose as an admirable example of perseverance and leadership as well as strong discipline and devotion to duty, “a fireman who still glows with fire” said Minister Fonseka. The Minister addressed the SFRSA team stating, “I wish to commend you all on this feat of selfless commitment to duty. Remember, there were many lessons learnt and work to improve. Safety and efficiency is always ongoing. Keep up the great work and thank you”.
President Ramkalawan praised the team and spoke words of encouragement and gratitude. The President spoke on several incidents where he witnessed the firefighters in action putting their lives on the line for the safety of others. The officers each received a token from the President and had the opportunity to converse with the President, Vice-President Mr. Ahmed Afif and Minister Fonseka after the ceremony.
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The Disaster Risk Management Department launched the Operationalisation of the National Integrated Emergency Management Plan.
The plan was facilitated by The World Bank in collaboration with the Seychelles Government and supported by Climate Risk and Early Warning Systems initiative.
The Minister for Internal Affairs Mr. Charles E. Fonseka delivered a speech where he explained that, “this plan aims to strengthen emergency preparedness for effective response at all levels. It aims to enhance disaster preparedness for effective response and to “Build Back Better” in recovery, rehabilitation and reconstruction”.
Amongst the distinguished guests was the President of the Republic of Seychelles Mr. Wavel Ramkalawan, Vice President Mr. Ahmed Afif, Designated Minister, Mr. Jean-François Ferrari and other Ministers. Also in attendance was the Speaker of the National Assembly Mr. Roger Mancienne .
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Minister Fonseka paid a visit to the Seychelles Fire and Rescue Services Agency (SFRSA) headquarters Saturday afternoon to meet with the team which responded to the ammonia leak accident aboard the Spanish fishing vessel, Albacora Cuatro.
The Minister congratulated the team on their prompt response and professionalism during the operation. The SFRSA team comprised of 30 officers who worked over two days.
Minister Fonseka thanked them for their bravery and commitment in saving lives as well as their excellent work in making the vessel safe to prevent further loss of life. When addressing the officers, Minister Fonseka stated that, “the dangers are not always visible but it is present and you always have to be well equipped and mentally prepared to face it. We all salute you for your incredible work and devotion”.
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