Neasa Hourigan (Dublin Central, Green Party)
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58. To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, and Local Government if membership of the retained fire service is a breach of the Civil Service Code of Standards and Behaviour. [24299/20]

Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal, Fianna Fail)
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The provision of a fire service in its functional area, including the establishment and maintenance of a fire brigade, the assessment of fire cover needs and the provision of fire station premises, is a statutory function of fire authorities under the Fire Services Act, 1981.  My Department supports fire authorities through setting general policy, providing a central training programme, issuing guidance on operational and other fire safety related matters and providing capital funding support for purchase of equipment and priority infrastructural projects.

The Civil Service Code of Standards and Behaviour is an important element of the overall framework within which all civil servants are expected to work. It sets out the standards required of civil servants in the discharge of their duties. These standards of behaviour and values will support a high quality public service, based on high levels of personal performance and responsibility. The Code falls under the remit of the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform.

The Code forms part of the terms of employment of all civil servants who are expected to apply it at all times. A copy must be given to every staff member on entry to the Civil Service and they will be required to certify in writing that they have received and read it. The Code is circulated to all existing staff who will be required to sign a similar declaration.  

In regard to possible breaches of the Code it is a matter in the first instance to be discussed and where possible resolved between the employee and their employer. When this cannot be achieved my understanding is that the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform can where appropriate, assist and advise the relevant parties.