Anne Ferris (Wicklow, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 405: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to establish a National Fire Authority as recommended by the Farrell Grant Sparks Report, 2002, following an in-depth analysis of the fire services and as promised by a previous Minister for the Environment in 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9424/11]

Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The report of the Review of Fire Safety and Fire Services in Ireland was published by my Department in 2002.

Among the principal recommendations in the Report was a greater focus on fire safety, including the introduction of community fire safety initiatives; the enhancement of fire safety legislation, the adoption of a risk-based approach to determining emergency cover as well as new approaches and structures for major emergency management. In addition the Report called for continued capital investment to improve infrastructure and further development of safety, health and welfare arrangements. A great deal has been accomplished in the last decade since the publication of the Report and its key recommendations have been implemented. For example, substantial financial resources were provided to local authorities over the last ten years, and have resulted in a quality fire and rescue infrastructure throughout the country. Our emergency management arrangements are in line with best international practise and fire safety legislation was strengthened in 2003.

In relation to the specific matter raised in the question, the establishment of the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management in 2009 addressed conclusively the Farrell Grant Sparks recommendation on revised institutional arrangements at central Government level. The new structures confirm responsibility for local delivery of fire services, as recommended at paragraph 5.58 of Report, while strengthening the national oversight and leadership role appropriately. The National Directorate, which is located in my Department, has taken over the functions of the Fire Services Council, and is an approach in keeping with the necessary reduction of agencies, while providing appropriate political accountability.