The Regional Secretary for Science, Technology and Infrastructures visited today the construction site of a 25 m swimming pool at the Ribeira Grande Fire Station. This visit took place in the context of the celebration of the World Day of Civil Protection.
On the occasion, the government official announced that the Immediate Life Support service (SIV) ambulances will enter into operation in the Azores this month, providing highly specialised medical assistance. This service will be operated by specialised nurses and firefighters.
SIV Ambulances will initially enter into operation on São Miguel. The service will be also extended to Angra do Heroísmo and Horta during the first half of 2012, according to the experience, response capacity and staff training still taking place on these islands.
"The Azores Civil Protection remains on the right track which is evidenced by the invitation we received today from Italy's National Civil Protection Service regarding a possible collaboration with Azorean experts and technicians to share experience and knowledge," informed José Contente.
With regard to the swimming pool about to be completed the government official emphasised that the Regional Secretariat continues to invest in Civil Protection in a sustainable manner and in accordance with the Region's resources; however priority status has been given to the investment in the training and qualification of firefighters.
The swimming pool will serve the entire community in the municipality of Ribeira Grande and is suited for people with disabilities. This infrastructure is equipped with a renewable energy system for water heating, which includes geothermal energy, and is expected to be completed within a month and a half; the works represented a total investment of 2.3 million Euros.
Concerning the current situation of the Povoação Volunteer Fire Brigade, José Contente informed that, on February 4, this Firefighter Association enquired the Azores Regional Civil Protection and Fire Service on the payment of fuel by the Regional Supply Fund.
However, this body revealed that the Povoação Fire Department has not sent any invoice for the months November or December. "On February 13, the Povoação Fire Department apologised for the lapse and, therefore, there is no delay on the part of the Government. The delay was on the part of the Povoação Firefighters Association," stressed the Regional Secretary.