FREEPORT, Grand Bahama -- Prime Minister, Dr. the Hon. Hubert A. Minnis says that crime in the country, including the number of homicides, is trending downward.

“Because of this, we owe a debt of gratitude to the leadership and to the men and women of the Royal Bahamas Police Force for their dedicated fight in protecting their fellow citizens,” he added.

The Prime Minister’s remarks came during the official opening of the Royal Bahamas Police Force Albert J. Miller Complex, Fire Station, on Friday, September 21, 2018 on Cathedral Boulevard, Freeport, Grand Bahama.

The Prime Minister encouraged those in attendance and the Bahamian public overall to work with the police in countering crime and promoting safety.

“When the police and community collaborate, crime and the incidence of violence are reduced,” said Prime Minister Minnis. “Let us continue to produce partnerships, to promote peaceful communities across our Bahamas and throughout Grand Bahama.

“In addressing the quality of life of our citizens, from Inagua to Grand Bahama, safety and security are of paramount importance.”

The Prime Minister said that he was especially pleased to be in Grand Bahama for the inauguration and dedication of the new state-of-the-art fire and police station, named in honour of the late Sir Albert Miller, whom he referred to as a great Bahamian, who made a tremendous contribution to nation-building and to Grand Bahama.

“I am pleased to welcome the family and colleagues of Sir Albert, who himself rose through the ranks of the Royal Bahamas Police Force to become Deputy Commissioner of Police,” added Prime Minister Minnis.  “He was instrumental in ensuring that the property for this facility was donated by the Port Authority. Sir Albert left us with a great legacy of community and government partnership. Let us always cherish his enormous contributions to his country and to Freeport and Grand Bahama.”

The new fire station sits on three acres of land and occupies 22,000 square feet of office and living space. It also comprises a dormitory for single officers, an exercise and indoor gymnasium and a full-sized outdoor basketball court.

The new facility is expected to be staffed with a team of well-trained and efficient police officers and fire fighters, who are strategically positioned to respond quickly to emergencies.

The Prime Minister said that the facility is a part of his government’s commitment to ensuring that the Royal Bahamas Police Force is well equipped with the facilities, the high mobility transportation, cutting-edge technology and other resources needed to serve, to protect and to defend the Bahamian community.

“I am sure that the residents of northeastern Grand Bahama are elated about this major accomplishment, which marks a significant milestone,” said Prime Minister Minnis.

“Tragedies such as fires are inevitable and in mere minutes, can do great harm to people and property. Therefore, it is so important that a fire station, with knowledgeable, trained and experienced firefighters, is always ready and equipped to deal with both minor occurrences and major catastrophes.

“This includes natural disasters such as hurricanes. This facility will be integrated into our national emergency and disaster preparedness program.”

The prime Minister thanked all who were involved in bringing the dream of the complex to life, including the architect, Livingstone Forbes; the contractor, Patrick McDonald; Bellevue furniture and everyone who worked hard to build and furnish the new fire station.