Shtip, 23 July 2024 (MIA) – A new legislation for firefighters will be sent to the government as soon as possible, Defense Minister Vlado Misajlovski said in a statement to MIA.

“The Defense Ministry in the coming period will be reviewing the proposals after in the past few years working groups from several institutions have been drafting a new firefighting legislation and a motion will be sent to the government as soon as possible,” stated Misajlovski.

A portion of the firefighters’ salaries are secured through earmarked grants from the Defense Ministry’s budget. 734 firefighters nationwide are paid through earmarked grants. 

Servicemen and a military helicopter have been deployed to help in the efforts to extinguish the wildfires. 

Misajlovski confirmed to MIA that the new Italian-made helicopters, which are being procured, will be used in firefighting operations.

“The helicopters will be equipped with an installation for extinguishing fires,” said the Minister. 

MIA file photo