Rescue and safety gets big boost

The Seychelles Lifeguards Unit, which in the past was part of the Seychelles Police Force, has been transferred to the Seychelles Fire & Rescue Services Agency (SFRSA) as from yesterday.

According to a communiqué from the Department of Internal Affairs, following a review and consultation process, it was decided that the services of the lifeguards will better serve the public if the unit was transferred to the SFRSA, given that they share the same mission of undergoing rescue operations and ensuring the safety of the population. 

The Unit will continue to maintain its core responsibilities, which are ensuring the safe use of beaches by bathers and when required, the rescue of distressed swimmers and application of first aid.

The Minister for Home Affairs and Transport Joel Morgan said that the change will bring more efficiency in the service. 
“This move forms part of government’s continued plan to streamline and rationalise its various departments, in regards to their assignment of functions. The merging of the Seychelles Lifeguards Unit to the SFRSA is essential at this juncture as we can build upon the positive synergies that exist between the two organisations, making the services they offer more effective and efficient,” he said.

The minister also highlighted the important role of the lifeguards in ensuring the safety of our beaches.

“We continue to develop our capabilities in key areas, while recognising that progress and development bring with them new challenges and new expectations. Lifeguards are the first responders in the event of a life threatening incident either happening on the beach or in the water, be it by responding to save a distressed swimmer from drowning or acting to identify and report negligent boaters breaking the law.”

Minister Morgan has thanked the young Seychellois men and women of the Seychelles Lifeguards for their service and dedication, even at a time when the unit is still evolving and maturing. 
He has also thanked the Commissioner of Police for the valuable role his department has played in managing the service.  

The Department of Internal Affairs has also announced that employment opportunities for young men and women currently exist within the Seychelles Lifeguards.  For more information, interested candidates are being asked to contact the employment agencies or the Seychelles Fire and Rescue Services Agency.