Mr. Dennis Keeley:

I am unaware of any discussion to do away with Dublin Fire Brigade as a contributor and provider of an ambulance service. I do not believe that is the case. We are in discussions about the model in future, with our colleagues in the NAS. Those discussions are looking for the optimal service model and how to deliver it.

The fire service's role in the network was mentioned. The service's contribution to pre-hospital emergency care in Dublin is well known and documented. As chief fire officer, I am very proud of the service we deliver. As mentioned, however, resources are, as is the case with the rest of the country, a significant issue for Dublin. Dublin Fire Brigade is suffering as a result of everything that was mentioned earlier. Handover delays at hospitals are something that we work to alleviate with colleagues in the NAS and with hospitals directly.

One thing that has not been touched on so far during this session but that was touched on earlier is recognition for our front-line staff. As chief fire officer, I acknowledge the tremendous work done within Dublin Fire Brigade but also by all emergency workers who have been working day in and day out, particularly during Covid.