GARDEN ROUTE NEWS - The high fire risk in Hessequa and the freedom to get an aircraft in the air without the permission of an airport are some of the reasons why Eden District Municipality is keen to move their George fire base to Mossel Bay.

"Besides, Mossel Bay is more central than George," said Eden Disaster Manager Gerhard Otto during a discussion at a council meeting last Wednesday 30 August.

Eden DM is currently leasing a building, which costs them more than R2-million over a period of three years. The current contract ends on 31 December. Eden DM does own a building that could be used to accommodate the regional main fire and rescue station in Mossel Bay. 

The premises are big enough to house both the Mossel Bay Local Municipality's and Eden DM's fire services. However, the current building would have to be extended to ensure enclosed parking space for fire tenders of both the authorities.

The ANC asked that the plans be discussed at a meeting of the Local Labour Forum and that personnel of the Eden Fire Station be consulted before Council takes a decision on the matter. Council agreed to consult with the staff and unions before voting on the item at the next council meeting in November.

Icosa Councillor Theresa Fortuin and Councillor Virgill Gericke, representing a group of opposition parties in Eden Council. "I don't understand why Eden Fire has to move to Mossel Bay," said Fortuin. "Perhaps Eden Fire Chief, Freddie Thaver, wants to live near the sea?"

According to Otto, some of the younger firefighters are very eager to work from Mossel Bay. Should the fire base move to Mossel Bay, a least 12 members of the George station personnel will remain stationed in George. Personnel who are moved to Mossel Bay will be compensated for their relocation at a cost of about R75 000 per member.

ARTICLE & PHOTOS: MICHELLE PIENAAR, GEORGE HERALD JOURNALIST

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