Operation S.O.S. - What a success
Operation SOS – “Save our Selves” was indeed a success. July 15, 2009 ushered in day one of Operation - SOS which put simply is a free learn to swim programme opened to all citizens of Barbados. The programme was executed by the Lifeguard Service two days a week (Wednesdays & Fridays) at Browne’s and Folkestone Beaches; with two one hour sessions each day at 9:30am – 10:30am and from 4:00pm – 5:00 pm.
The response to this programme was overwhelming with over 200 persons being accepted to participate. I have been reliably informed that the persons from every parish from the very young to the more mature (over sixty) participated and successfully completed the seven week programme.
The closing ceremony & presentation of certificate to participants took place at Browne’s Beach on September 05, 2009. Mr. Michael Thompson DGM (ag.) briefly outlined the objectives of the programme and welcomed the participants and invited guests.
Dr. the Hon. Denis Lowe, Minister of the Environment, Water Resources & Drainage addresses participants and strongly endorsed the work of the Commission and the Lifeguard Service. He thanked the department for their role in empowering Barbadians.
Member of Parliament for the City, Hon. Patrick Todd also attended the ceremony acknowledged that the ability to swim was a matter of life & death and further stressed the importance of everyone on the island acquiring the skill.
Mr. Tyrone Lowe, Chairman alluded to the fact that the Commission planned to offer another programme to cater to the needs of the working public.
