The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) has taken delivery of significant firefighting resources to boost its fire and rescue capability, made possible through the RSIPF AFP Policing Partnership Program (RAPPP).
Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) and the AFP donated assets including 750 long-sleeve uniforms, 250 pairs of boots, portable pumps, hoses, bolt cutters, sledge axes, scopes and other specialised firefighting utilities.
The resources will help renew the RSIPF Fire and Rescue's capabilities, and also help fit out the four firetrucks provided by the RAPPP program earlier this year. It is expected the firetrucks, refurbished with the new equipment, will be deployed to support the public safety response for the 2023 Pacific Games, which start in Honiara on Sunday (19 November) and run until 2 December, 2023.
The refurbishment of the fleet will ensure firefighters in the Solomon Islands are better equipped to respond to fire, rescue and hazardous material incidents and deploy quickly to a range of emergency situations.
The AFP provides support to the RSIPF Fire and Rescue through the RAPPP, which includes the secondment of senior NSW firefighter Inspector Matt Goldman, who advises and supports his Solomon Islands' colleagues, and assists with the procurement of specialist equipment.
The AFP and FRNSW have previously donated personal protective equipment, including overalls, coats and helmets.
AFP Commander Solomon Islands Heath Davies said the equipment would make a big difference to the fire and rescue response and capability in Honiara and surrounding areas, particularly in the lead-up to the Pacific Games.
"The AFP is proud to have once again worked closely with Fire and Rescue New South Wales to procure vital equipment to help the RSIPF Fire and Rescue as they serve the local community," Commander Davies said.
"We hope the officers are better equipped with the tools they need to respond and protect the community under challenging conditions."
Speaking on behalf of RSIPF Commissioner Mostyn Mangau, NRD Director Chief Superintendent Francis Ramoni said the RSIPF was honoured to receive the equipment in the lead-up to a busy period for the force.
"This is part of the ongoing support we have received from the AFP," Chief Superintendent Ramoni said.
"The handing over of the equipment by the AFP is timely as the RSIPF prepares for the 2023 Pacific Games and 2024 National General Elections.
"The equipment is an addition to the ongoing capability provided by the AFP in support of the RSIPF Fire and Rescue operations and tactical daily operation and response.
"On behalf of the Commissioner and RSIPF Executive, I would like to thank the AFP for providing the equipment. This is yet another demonstration that Australia is the RSIPF's major supporting partner in the Pacific region."
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