The Minister for the Public Service, Home Affairs, Labour and Gender Affairs has praised the work of the servicemen and women of the Saint Lucia Fire Service.

Speaking at the Saint Lucia Fire Service Retirement Ceremony, Dr. Virginia Albert-Poyotte gave recognition to the hard work and devoted service given by members of the esteemed institution. Minister Poyotte highlighted the recognition bestowed on the service by Prime Minister Hon. Philip J Pierre, who at the time was out of state on official business.

‘‘He thinks very highly of our fire officers, especially during the time of the pandemic and the role that you played in saving many lives. Having worked with the Fire Service in the Department of Home Affairs I can say that I am very pleased.”

The Hon. Minister went on to congratulate all fifteen retirees who were being recognized at the ceremony. Special mention was made to Chief Fire Officer Joseph Joseph, who has served 35 years within the service, 16 years at the helm as Chief Fire Officer. The Hon. Minister Poyotte stated that his skills and those of his retiring colleagues must be resources to be continuously drawn on.

“Let me congratulate all of those who are going on retirement. You will be moving on to a new career, I hope that this is well planned. But I also feel that we should not loose the skills of those who have moved on. The system must make provision so that we can tap into those skills and experiences, even as you move on.”

The Saint Lucia Fire Service Retirement Ceremony took place on Saturday, June 18, at the Finance Administrative Centre.