Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I take the opportunity, as I have done previously, to thank all the women and men in the retained fire services for the work they do 365 days a year. As the Deputy stated, the way in which they responded to the terrible tragedy in Creeslough was a shining example of the really important work they do. I will make two points in respect of the fire services. The Government has brought forward a capital plan of €62 million over five years, as the Deputy mentioned. We are seeing upgrades and new stations, fire tenders and equipment across the country. The retained service is crucial. The review is time bound. The Taoiseach has engaged directly on this. The review relates to how we can improve conditions for the retained service but also attract more people in. One of the issues has been ensuring that people's employers, depending on the job they are doing, will give them the time to do that work. In that regard, there is the potential to move to a shift base. Dennis Keeley, the chief fire officer in Dublin - I will conclude on this important point, a Leas-Cheann Comhairle - is heading up that review with colleagues.

See this speech in context