Minister for Labour, Social Policy and Refugees of Zenica-Doboj Canton, Antonio Simunovicexpressed his deepest condolences to the families of the victims of the tragic fire that took place in the Retirement Home in Tuzla, in which 11 people lost their lives, and 36 people sought medical help.
– We received the news of this tragedy with deep sadness and disbelief. On behalf of the Government of the Zenica-Doboj Canton and on my own behalf, I express my sincere condolences to the families of the victims, the employees of the Home and all citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Our thoughts are with the injured and all those affected by this unfortunate event – Minister Šimunović said.
The minister pointed out that this accident is a strong warning about the importance of safety standards in institutions that care for elderly and vulnerable people. He reminded that an incident with a fire was recently recorded in the Public Institution “Retirement Home with Stationary” of the Zenica-Doboj Canton, which, thanks to the correct fire alarm system and the quick reaction of the staff, was successfully remedied without human casualties or major material damage.
– This tragedy must be an occasion for action. I appeal to governments at all levels to urgently initiate a detailed review of the state of installations and fire protection systems in all homes for the elderly, as well as in other social care institutions. The safety and lives of the users of these institutions must be the absolute priority of public policies and budget planning – stressed Minister Šimunović.
