Civil Protection Department launches 5 new e-applications

The Civil Protection Department has launched five new online applications to improve the quality of the services offered to the public.

Home affairs minister Carmelo Abela gave an insight on the 5 new e-applications, noting that according to  statistics, the most requested service, which now could be found online, is for  fire-engines during public events in particular those involving fireworks activities.

“In the last 5 years, 610 requests were registered for this service with the year 2015 seeing more than 138 requests,” he said.

Abela explained that another e-service is for a familiarisation visit or Fire Drill participation by CPD members in government or private entities.

“In the last year, 17 entities used this service,” he said, adding that these visits helps firemen to be familiar with the particular place, which can prove useful if an accident happens and CPD aid is needed.

“During such visits representatives from CPD provide advice on measures of prevention to the entities and help them identify any possible hazards,” he added.

Abela said that these applications will also work to raise awareness about the work carried out by CPD.

“In fact, those interested in visiting a fire station now can also apply online,” he said, adding that in 2015 there were over 70 school visits to fire stations or demonstrations by the K9 section.

Abela added that the measure also sought to reduce bureaucacy and improve simplification processes in the services offered by Government.

He noted that prior to these e-applications individuals had to apply for these services at ta’ Kandja Headquarters or at the Għajnsielem Fire-station in Gozo.

Department Head John Rizzo said that other applications that could be downloaded online included those for work experience with CPD and request for a dinghy, diver or fireboat, and that applications can be found on www.civilprotection.gov.mt