Written answers

Tuesday, 27 November 2007

Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government

Fire Tragedy Investigations

8:00 pm

Photo of Andrew DoyleAndrew Doyle (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Question 623: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will conduct an independent enquiry into events surrounding the recent fire tragedy in Bray; and if he will allow the families of victims of the tragedy access to the terms of reference of existing and independent enquiries into the fire in Bray. [31362/07]

Photo of Martin FerrisMartin Ferris (Kerry North, Sinn Fein)
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Question 646: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the terms of reference for an inquiry into the Bray fire tragedy. [30942/07]

Photo of Billy TimminsBilly Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Question 649: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the terms of reference of the investigations into the deaths of two firemen in Bray, County Wicklow by the Gardaí, Health and Safety Authority and Wicklow County Council; when these investigations will be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30984/07]

Photo of Tony KilleenTony Killeen (Clare, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 623, 646 and 649 together.

Three separate investigations are underway into the Bray fire tragedy. These are being conducted by the relevant statutory authorities, the Health and Safety Authority (HSA), An Garda Síochána and Wicklow County Council. I believe that it is important to await the outcome of these investigations. The questions concerning the publication of the terms of reference for the HSA and Garda investigations and when these investigations will be completed are matters for those authorities. I understand that it is the case that a Garda investigation would normally focus on whether a crime was involved and with a view to assisting the Coroner's inquiries, while the HSA has wide-ranging powers relevant to the matters in question.

In relation to the Wicklow County Council investigation, which, I understand, is proceeding apace, the following is the brief given to the independent consultants conducting it on behalf of the Council:—

"carry out an investigation and assessment of the fire incident with specific reference to the building features to:

determine, if possible, the factors in the building which influenced the course and severity of the fire,

derive a timeline for the incident based on a review of accounts of those in attendance, assessment of the fire scene and post fire analysis,

and prepare a report setting out the results of the assessment and conclusions in regard to the particular circumstances in this building, which contributed to the deaths of the two fire fighters."

I will consider any necessary change arising from the outcome of the above investigations in the Department's continuing work of supporting and developing fire services.

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