A group of 60 people became assistance and rescue officers within the Civil Protection Department (CPD) today in a passing out parade held for the first time in 16 years.

David Borg Saydon, 35, was named best recruit.

Home Affairs Minister Carmelo Abela said that the CPD received 5,000 calls for assistance last year 2,400 of them between June and September. With 700 calls, August was the busiest month.

He said there were 800 calls so far this year.

The minister insisted on the importance of training, which he said should be ongoing and said the government was committed to strengthening disciplinary forces.

It was investing in new protective clothing for CPD officers at a total cost of €100,000.

It was also investing in equipment and vehicles to the tune of €8 million. Mr Abela said that10 new fire engines were to to be put in service in coming weeks together with new and more advanced digital and radio communication.

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