Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I acknowledge the Senators’ comments in regard to our Civil Defence volunteers, who are the first responders at many events in our community and do tremendous work. Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, in particular, we saw the exceptional work they carried out during that period. It is a time that really hit hard among volunteers because training was not happening at that time. It is important we increase our force again. There are some 2,500 volunteers in the sector and there has been a 20% increase in the budget this year, which I know will go a long way. It is important we redevelop the legislation because the Civil Defence has been operating from almost archaic legislation on the Statute Book. This will modernise our Civil Defence and give it the tools it needs to support its services at the heart of our community. As I said on Second Stage, there is no family in our community that has not been touched by the work the Civil Defence does at many events, and many Senators specifically referenced those events in their contributions. I thank Members for their co-operation.