Region Two receives mini-firefighting vehicles to boost fire response

Communities within Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) have received a major boost in fire response capabilities, with the addition of three mini-firefighting vehicles. The vehicles were officially handed over Tuesday to the Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) of Aurora, Mainstay, and Onderneeming, by Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Sonia Parag.
Speaking at the handing-over ceremony held at the Anna Regina Fire Station, Minister Parag underscored the significance of decentralizing emergency response services, ensuring that smaller communities are equipped to handle fire-related emergencies swiftly and effectively.

She emphasized the importance of acting with responsiveness and compassion, reminding the newly trained auxiliary firefighters that their role extends beyond just operating the equipment—it involves safeguarding lives and property with dedication and responsibility.
“These vehicles are not just machines they are life saving tools…Their presence in your communities means that help can arrive faster, and that can make all the difference in an emergency,” Minister Parag stated.
She also urged firefighters to take care of the equipment and execute their duties with diligence, noting that their role as first responders requires both skill and empathy.
Highlighting the initiative’s origins, Minister Parag reminded the gathering that the provision of these firefighting units was conceptualized by President Irfaan Ali, as part of his broader vision to fully equip each NDC with the resources needed to serve its people effectively.
“The President is committed to strengthening local governance, and that means providing the necessary machinery not just for firefighting, but also compactor trucks and excavators to improve community infrastructure,” she explained.
Recognizing the significance of these vehicles, Minister Parag stressed that their impact would depend on how well they are maintained and utilized. She urged the auxiliary firefighters to see them as more than just equipment, but as critical tools that can save lives and protect property. Their care and readiness, she emphasized, would determine how effectively they serve their intended purpose.
She also announced that an additional mini-firefighting vehicle will be deployed to serve the stretch between Anna Regina and Charity, further enhancing emergency response capabilities in the region.
The ceremony was attended by Regional Chairperson Vilma DaSilva, Regional Executive Officer Susannah Saywack, Mayor of Anna Regina Devin Mohan, Regional Fire Commander Shivbaran Khemraj, officials of the Guyana Fire Service, and representatives of the respective NDCs.