Chris Andrews (Dublin Bay South, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank my colleague, Deputy Paul Donnelly, for bringing forward this motion to the Dáil. I commend the men and women of Dublin Fire Brigade on their commitment and bravery in carrying out their work. When one looks out the window today, it is notable that most people are indoors, but the fire services are the people we call on if there is any trouble or concern for us or our families. I particularly thank the members of the Dublin Fire Brigade stations in Donnybrook and Tara Street which operate across Dublin Bay South. Not only are they an emergency service and fire brigade stations, they are an integral part of the community. They are involved in events held by the community and they regularly engage in fundraising for a range of charities.

Dublin Fire Brigade provides immediate medical assistance 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It has had such a profound impact on countless lives across the city and beyond. In many cases, these firefighters put their own lives at risk while carrying out this invaluable work. It cannot be said often enough how indebted we in this city are to the men and women of Dublin Fire Brigade, but words in support and praise are not nearly enough. A round of applause will not help. The Dublin Fire Brigade is in need of urgent support. That is what this motion brought forward by Deputy Paul Donnelly intends to deliver.

We are hearing near constant reports of increased pressure owing to staff shortages. There is huge concern with regard to a lack of equipment and resources. Dublin Fire Brigade has saved countless lives in this city. In times of crisis elsewhere in this country, it has gone wherever it was needed. A first responder should never be put under this type of pressure. The men and women of Dublin Fire Brigade are the backbone of the emergency response in Dublin. They should never have to ballot for industrial action owing to staff shortages and concerns that the safety of firefighters and members of the public is being compromised.

We frequently hear reports of fire engines being off the road due to staff shortages. During last Hallowe'en, one of the busiest periods of the year for Dublin Fire Brigade, there were five engines off the road owing to staff shortages. We need to see back-to-back recruitment classes scheduled immediately and supports put in place to bring this lack of emergency cover to an end.

We need to provide the Dublin Fire Brigade with the equipment and resources needed to carry out its job to the fullest of its members' ability. Dublin's fire brigade service is its first and last line of defence and it needs to be better resourced. I call on all parties to support this motion and give the Dublin Fire Brigade the support it deserves.

See this speech in context