Attorney General, Adriel Brathwaite (FP)??
It is with profound sadness that, like other members of the public, I learnt of the death of Fire Officer, Christopher Edwards, in tragic circumstances last night, while responding to an emergency.
This incident has again brought into sharp focus the hazardous conditions under which our security and emergency services personnel operate on a daily basis.
In fact, the work of these dedicated public servants, who are pressed into service as part of our emergency response mechanism, is one often fraught with a high degree of danger. Indeed, no praise is too high for these brave men and women who are always willing to go beyond the call of duty, sometimes putting their own lives on the line, to ensure our safety; and for this, we are most grateful.
I want to extend sincere condolences to the wife and family of Mr. Edwards, and to his work colleagues and friends. All Barbadians feel your pain and we empathise with you.
Earlier today, I met with Fire Chief, Wilfred Marshall, and other fire officers, and we have engaged the assistance of Network Services Centre, which will be providing counselling to his colleagues and his immediate family.
I also propose to meet personally with Mrs. Edwards very soon to assure her that Government would be doing everything possible to assist in this time of need.
On behalf of the Government of Barbados I again offer heartfelt sympathy.