Fire Service Rejects Criticism Over Rescue Boat Purchase

Bratislava, 20 January (TASR) - The Firefighter and Rescue Service (HaZZ) rejects criticism over the purchase of a rescue boat for firefighters, defending the acquisition of a single-engine variant, HaZZ press department head Lubica Vlckova Laluhova told TASR on Tuesday in response to criticism published by the Dennik N daily. Vlckova Laluhova argued that since the vessel was put into operation, no malfunction has been recorded. "A boat engine with an output of 350 horsepower is a technically more suitable and economically more efficient solution for larger and working vessels, where emphasis is placed on reliability, operational safety and long-term operational readiness. The selected type of boat engine with an output of 350 HP meets the required technical and safety parameters for carrying out rescue operations and corresponds to the nature of the vessel's deployment," she said. As the spokesperson explained, an engine with higher output is not operated at its limit over the long term and can work at lower revolutions. According to her, the requirement for two engines was dropped after market consultations in 2023. A maneuvering device and a shore power connection will also be procured through a tender this year. "The vessel's equipment includes four paddles that meet all the necessary parameters for this type of vessel," she claimed. Earlier in the day, the Dennik N daily published criticism from firefighters, who told the newspaper that the boat has only one engine. They also objected to the paddles and other accessories. mf