The Department of Search and Rescue has hired 60 personnel on an emergency basis to help fill staffing shortages.
KHJ News has asked SAR Director Utumoe Alefosio about the emergency hires last week, and he said that that the department is processing personnel needs as required.
However, he spoke at length to KVZK-TV about the emergency hires, saying that 60 young men and women have been hired to address the need for manpower.
These individuals are now working at EMS, Marine Patrol, and Fire Division. The Director said the 60 emergency hires will be trained in the first academy by the Department of Search and Rescue which will be launched next month.
He explained that the academy will cross train the recruits with the various skills set needed to fulfill the functions of the three divisions under SAR.
The director pointed out that the department needed the additional manpower to respond to emergencies on a 24-hour basis and he was thankful to the Governor and Lt. Governor for recognizing the need warranting the emergency hires.
Alefosio did not explain how the emergency hires are being funded.
