By Q Radio News
The final phase of the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service Learning and Development Centre near Cookstown is due to begin in May.
Health Minister Robin Swann has announced that a £42.6million contract for the remaining construction has been awarded to Newry firm Felix O’Hare and Co Ltd, which is expected to be completed in 2024.
The minister said the new centre will have state of the art facilities.
Robin Swann spoke to Q Radio News:
“This investment will enable NIFRS to undertake the largest capital build in their history. The facilities it provides will revolutionise how NIFRS trains and develops its people to protect everyone in Northern Ireland.
“These will provide Firefighters with scenario-based realistic and repeatable training experiences, and will complement the existing Tactical Firefighting Facility on the site which has been in operation since September 2019.”

Pictured left to right: Trainee Firefighter Niamh McFall, ACFRO Aidan Jennings, Minister Swann, Damian Gill and Trainee Firefighter Mark McDaid
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