By Kemi Olatunde

The Ondo State government has said that arrangements are underway to fortify the Environmental Health Officers Cadre in the State Public Service to prevent disease outbreaks in the state.

The state Head of Service, Mr. Bayo Philip, dropped the hint while hosting the state branch of the Health Officers Association on Tuesday in his office in Akure, the state capital.

While urging the officers to brace up in their service delivery to rid the state of diseases and forestall new ones, especially cholera, as witnessed in some states in recent times, he assured the government’s readiness to put the necessary machinery in place to fortify the sector for optimal performance.

According to him, the government, in partnership with relevant stakeholders and the local government authorities, would look at areas where improvement is needed, such as logistics and personnel.

Speaking earlier, the President of the association, Mrs. Babajide Olufunke, solicited a more conducive working environment for their members by making the necessary resources available and employing more staff.

According to her, the government should also consider putting in place a sustainable succession plan, stating that most of the officers are gradually moving towards retirement.