Juanjo Barrio Named New Director of Andorra Fire Brigade After Farré's 36-Year Tenure

Juanjo Barrio will assume leadership of Andorra's fire brigade as director, with current deputy director Josep Joan Ribera remaining in the number two position, following Jordi Farré's retirement after 36 years of service.

The government has finalized the transition plan, pending approval at the ministerial council meeting on August 26 unless complications emerge. Farré, who began as a basic firefighter in 1991 at age 19, advanced through roles including the GRIM mountain rescue unit, sub-officer, training coordinator, officer, and deputy director from 2009 under Joan Carles Recasens. He took the helm in 2021.

Barrio, who joined in 2000 as a firefighter-medic after nursing training, has built a strong record. He led the health section, coordinated stop-lab testing during the Covid-19 pandemic, and later became an officer and shift chief. He co-founded the A-118 union in 2011 as an alternative to the Andorran Firefighters Association, advocating for better public sector pay and professional rights. The group, which started with around 45 members, was among the last to reach an agreement with the government. Barrio also serves as treasurer of the nursing college board.

Ribera, deputy director since 2024, brings over 30 years to the brigade. He previously managed parks and logistics, stepping in after Jaume Sánchez's retirement.

The change marks the end of Farré's tenure and positions Barrio and Ribera to guide the brigade forward.