Organization to build training facility
Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake was present on Thursday for the signing of government land on long lease to the Windward Islands Emergency Medical Service (WIEMS) Foundation.
The parcel of land was issued in long lease to WIEMS for the purpose of constructing a training center with related activities and parking for the organizations ambulances.
Minister Lake said it was a very historical moment for him to sign the deed for the local organization that has been into existence for more than 20-years serving the community.
"WIEMS has been doing a fantastic job. They have qualified instructors, training equipment, they are members of the country’s disaster emergency structure falling under Emergency Support Function (ESF) 6, and they have also been recognized by government for their service.
"We need to support our local Non-Governmental Organizations especially in this area of expertise where medical training and the knowledge of first aid is very important.
"It’s all about going back to basics. You need trained professionals who in addition to existing first responders, will also play a role in attending to those injured in whatever fashion or form.
"The more persons trained the better for the community in an event of a disaster. I am very proud to be a part of this moment," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Thursday.
PHOTO CUTLINE: In the photo are representatives from WIEMS and Minister Hon. Maurice Lake (3rd from left standing) looking on as Civil Law Notary Meredith Boekhoudt (seated) signs the deed. DCOMM Photo