New recruits of the Jamaica Fire Brigade carry out a fire rescue drill during their graduation ceremony and parade yesterday at the G.C. Foster College in Angels, St. Catherine. - Ian Allen/Staff Photographer

The Jamaica Fire Brigade yesterday graduated 123 men and women at the G.C. Foster College, St. Catherine.

Under a searing sun, the brigade, which is experiencing a human capacity shortage of about 300 persons, paraded the 123 men and women, who were chosen from a group of 132. The 123 went through a series of practical and academic training over 12 weeks to emerge as graduates.

AIM FOR PROFESSIONALISM

Dean Peart, Minister of Local Government and Environment, who also acted in a dual capacity as inspecting officer and guest speaker, commended the graduating class, and encouraged them to aim for professionalism. He stressed that professionalism was needed in the force to make it a better one.

He noted that new fire trucks have started to arrive in the island and promised the brigade a new facility on which construction will begin next week to house future graduation ceremonies.

The exercise was for the brigade's new recruits and another recruitment is expected before the end of the year to address a current shortage of personnel.