KINGSTON, Jamaica—Minister of Local Government and Community Development Desmond McKenzie is commending the Jamaica Fire Brigade for its swift and sustained response to the massive fire that broke out at Superior Auto Parts earlier Thursday, which has now been contained.

“The smoke from this huge fire could be seen from miles away, and I want to specially recognise the arduous and strategic work of our firefighters, who battled it for hours and are still at the scene,” McKenzie said in a statement.

He also expressed gratitude to the National Water Commission (NWC), which he noted provided critical assistance to the JFB. He also expressed gratitude to Minister of Water Matthew Samuda.

“This intervention was especially important given our national challenges with drought conditions, as well as the fact that the fire occurred in an intensely built-up area, with homes and businesses in close proximity. Despite the obvious and regrettable devastation suffered by the principals and employees of Superior Parts, there is no question that lives were saved today, as well as the properties nearby, especially when I consider that there is a chemical factory among them. While there was no loss of life, three firefighters were injured and have been taken to hospital for treatment. I am very happy to report that their injuries are not life-threatening, and I wish them a speedy recovery,” he said.

The local government minister said the JFB was also hard at work in the hills of Mavis Bank in St Andrew battling bushfires with the support of the Jamaica Defence Force earlier Thursday.

He said the collaboration between the agencies demonstrates the vital importance of joined-up government, and commended them for preserving the environment and the livelihoods of our farmers in the area.

READ: Fire engulfs Superior Parts dealership on Hagley Park Road