5 Minute News

Leave of Absence for Forest Department Employees Amid Investigations

January 24, 2025

The Minister of Agriculture is expected to request that three individuals from the Forest Department be put on leave due to an investigation into financial irregularities in tenders for aerial firefighting resources. The police investigation focuses on bids for the leasing and maintenance of firefighting aircraft. Contracts made since 2017 are currently under scrutiny. Results from the police investigations are awaited to determine the next steps.