Louise O'Reilly (Dublin Fingal, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

As the Ceann Comhairle said to me once here, a Deputy is entitled to a reply but not necessarily an answer. We asked what would be done to future-proof and to ensure Dublin Fire Brigade has not only the physical resources it needs but also the manpower and womanpower it will need to do its work. The Minister of State gave a list referring to recruits and the recruitment campaign. I have told her very clearly that there is a staffing crisis. Whatever is happening in terms of recruitment is not keeping pace with retirements from Dublin Fire Brigade. Therefore, a better effort needs to be made. I ask the Minister of State to convey to the Minister, Deputy Darragh O'Brien, the need to double up on the training of recruits just to keep pace with retirements. That is even before we get to account for the population expansion. The Minister of State mentioned one of the aerial appliances that has been purchased. What use is that if the service does not have the personnel to operate it? On 28 September, that aerial appliance was out of commission. It was not being used because the staff were not available. Staff are needed. Equipment is also needed but it is useless without the men and women to use it.

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