IFRA delivers 100th donation to firefighters in Paraguay
UK-based International Fire & Rescue Association (IFRA) delivered today the 100th donation in their history. The British Ambassador attended a ceremony to mark the donation to the Paraguay National Board of Volunteer Firefighter Bodies (JNCBVP).
The JNCBVP got photos with HMA Ramin Navai, DHM John Davie and Europe Director for the Paraguaty Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ana Mariela Ayala
The JNCBVP received a donation of a fully equipped fire engine with all firefighting equipment, including a breathing apparatus and hydraulic rescue equipment (Jaws of Life). This refurbished equipment comes from IFRA, an organisation based in Scotland. The occasion marks the 100th time the IFRA donated vehicles and equipment around the world.
To celebrate this milestone, the President of the JNCBVP hosted an event at their headquarters in the city of Luque, Paraguay. Her Majesty’s Ambassador Ramin Navai participated in the event, alongside members of the British Community in Paraguay and the Europe Director of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
As part of the ceremony, the President of the JNCVBP Brigadier General Gustavo Alcaraz and Brigadier General Yenny Sosa received the keys to the fire engine. This vehicle will go to the city of Ybycui, located 120 km away from Asunción, in the department of Paraguari. After the event, the JNCBVP offered a tour of the facilities and other donations sent by IFRA in prior occasions.
The fire engine truck will find a new home in Ybycui, Paraguari
In the words of Brig. Gen. Gustavo Alcaraz:
The JNCBVP receives support from the IFRA since 2004. Many of us have been to the UK for training, and routinely receive training and equipment.”
We are grateful for this donation from IFRA, and for the growing support from the British Embassy in Asuncion and from government.
During the event, HMA Ramin Navai said to the firefighters:
I’m proud of this collaboration between the UK and Paraguay. This continued support will help continue saving lives and aiding communities around Paraguay.
You are the heroes of this country.
David Kay OBE, Director and Chairman of the IFRA, said:
It was a great honour for IFRA to be able to send the 100th vehicle that we have sent worldwide to Paraguay. (. . .) This was our way of recognising the support that we have received both from the government of Paraguay and the JNCBVP, and of course our own government in the United Kingdom.
We are pleased that this vehicle, which was donated by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service will go on to have a second life as a front line fire appliance, saving lives in Paraguay.
Updates to this page
Published 22 December 2021Last updated 4 April 2023 + show all updates
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