Timeline needed for independent review of fire services – Scahill

An independent review of the fire brigade service areas nationally could highlight urgent issues that need to be addressed, a Fine Gael Senator has said.

Senator Gareth Scahill said that plans for a review this year are welcome, but a timeline and detailed plan of what will be looked at is needed.

“An independent review that would take account of demographics, response time analysis, and the impact of climate related events would be hugely beneficial for fire brigade services across the country and provide reassurances for those living in rural communities.

“The review should be done to align with the most recent census data and more importantly keeping the real needs of our people on the ground at its core. When a major fire happens where a significant level of response is needed, we need to be reassured that our rural communities are not left without any cover.

“This is not just a call for policy, it’s a call for protection, preparedness and for the lives that depend on a timely emergency response.

“Recent events in counties Roscommon and Longford have laid bare the pressures on our fire services, particularly in rural areas and in areas with older populations.

“Gorse fires have occupied fire brigades across Roscommon and Longford, so we need a review to identify and support existing services in rural areas where populations have increased and the demographic is of older people or people with mobility issues. These communities need to have reassurance that they can get help if needed.

“Our fire brigade services are deeply committed and can take pride in their hard work, often under severe pressure. By establishing a review we can identify where investment or additional services will support their work.

“We committed in the Programme for Government to support the retained fire fighters service to ensure conditions are sufficient to attract, recruit and retain the required complement of fire fighters in the service, and to continue to invest in the provision of new fire stations and the refurbishment of existing fire stations throughout the country.

“I hope that when completed, the report will also provide more clarity for Local Authorities on how to implement upgrades and additions of fire services where identified.

“We urgently need to see a timeline and plan for how this review will be carried out. We must future-proof our fire service provision and ensure no community is left exposed,” concluded Senator Scahill.