Health concerns have emerged at the aging St John’s Fire Station after four firefighters reportedly developed symptoms linked to mould exposure within the facility, built in the 1960s.
Fire Chief Vivian Parker acknowledged the mould problem and confirmed that health officials will conduct assessments of the building. Meanwhile, remediation efforts are underway to address the immediate concerns.
Public Safety Minister Sir Steadroy Benjamin emphasized that the mould issue has persisted for nearly two decades, dating back to 2004.
“We’re not trying to pass blame to anybody. We’ve had problems with mould up until now. I’m not trying to pass the blame to anybody, really. We’ve addressed it. The building was built a long time ago, and mould has always been a problem for the fire station. And that is why [we are anxious] to get a new headquarters being done quickly,” Benjamin told Observer media.
Plans are already in motion to rebuild the Factory Road location into a modern facility funded by the Global Climate Fund.
Construction is scheduled to commence later this year with completion targeted for Christmas 2026, weather conditions permitting.
During renovation, firefighters will operate from a temporary structure near the existing station.
Despite rumours of industrial action over the poor conditions, Fire Chief Parker “categorically denied” reports that firefighters are staging a sit-in protest.
Parker also dismissed claims that the current administration owes money to the fire brigade.
