Senior Political Reporter
Dashboard cameras are being used in a pilot project in the T&T Police Service (TTPS) involving three per cent of its fleet and Cabinet approval is being sought to purchase 225 sets of breathing apparatus for use by the T&T Fire Services (TTFS).
This was stated in a written reply by National Security Minister Fitzgerald Hinds to questions from the Opposition circulated in the House of Representatives on Wednesday.
Hinds said information provided by the Commissioner of Police was that as a pilot project the TTPS acquired 100 dashboard cameras. As of October 16, 50 cameras have been installed.
He added that because it is a pilot project, the policy for review and monitoring is underway and is yet to be finalised.
Hinds also gave a breakdown of the 38 fire trucks attached to each fire station and confirmed that some stations are without applianceas, while 13 appliances are undergoing repairs.
“The tendering process in accordance with the current laws of Trinidad and Tobago is underway to procure another five appliances. Further still, in keeping with international best practices, vehicles are reassigned to provide support to area where they are needed in any fire incident or demanding circumstance,” Hinds said
The minister also provided information on the allocation of breathing apparatus for fire officers. He said repairs to breathing apparatus sets is an ongoing activity of high priority.
“Further, Cabinet approval is now being sought to purchase 225 breathing apparatus sets for the use and benefit of the TTFS. The process is well underway and the outcome is imminent.”
It was also revealed that 60 per cent of the fire hydrants throughout the country are functional.
“The TTFS has improved its ability to access water from any open source by recently purchasing and commissioning a mobile water system,” Hinds said.
The minister also provided the following figures on the number of fire trucks attached to fire stations: