No. 48

$1.9 million for ESA stations  

A total of $1.919 million will be spent upgrading ACT Emergency Services Agency stations and investigating the relocation of several stations as part of the Government’s boost to emergency services, Minister for Police and Emergency Services Simon Corbell announced today.

Mr Corbell said the majority of the funding, to be provided over four years, would be spent in the upcoming financial year.

“$937,000 has been allocated to immediately upgrade mission critical assets and amenities in front line operational stations in the next 12 months,” he said. A further $531,000 has also been allocated in 2007‑08 to undertake repairs and maintenance to these facilities.”

“The women and men of our emergency services put their lives on the line for the safety of our community 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It’s vital these frontline professionals are given an appropriate environment to work in.”

A range of building improvements and OH&S upgrade initiatives include:
•	replacement of alarm panels, smoke detectors and emergency lighting;
•	installation of new electrical safety devices; 
•	upgrading of electrical switches, points and improved lighting;
•	installation of diesel generators – ACT RFS & ACT SES;
•	installation of exhaust extraction – ACT RFS & ACT SES;
•	replacement and upgrade of mechanical doors;
•	replacing kitchens, carpets, appliances and blinds;
•	repainting and repairing walls and wet areas; and
•	repairs to roofing, gutters and plumbing.

“A further $300,000 has also been allocated to look into the feasibility of relocating a number of current ESA stations to brand-new facilities in new locations.

“The feasibility study will look at ACTAS, ACTFB, ACT RFS and ACT SES facilities and the possibility of co-location to achieve economies of scale without compromising operational service delivery. 
 
”This funding initiative supports the ACT Government’s continued commitment to ensuring a safer ACT community.”