Tony Killeen (Clare, Fianna Fail)

The board has been very proactive in interacting with departmental officials on the issues that arise. The importance of the volunteer programme initiative, which is close to completion, has been demonstrated. The initiative, which is particularly vibrant, has been successful in drawing the attention of the public to the existence of the Civil Defence and the advantages to volunteers of membership of the Civil Defence. It is fair to say that recruitment drives in some local authority areas have enjoyed considerable success. The efforts in other areas have been less successful. Concerns have been expressed about the availability and quality of training. Very good facilities are available at the headquarters in Roscrea. The Civil Defence also retains a training facility in the Phoenix Park. Its close association with the Irish Heart Foundation has been a positive development. Many of its courses are now accredited by the Further Education and Training Awards Council. I understand this initiative came from the board itself. It is important that independently verified and accredited qualifications are available. Other issues relating to insurance, etc., have also been successfully addressed.

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