by Cathal McGuigan
Mid Ulster MLA Patsy McGlone has said continuing cuts to the number of firefighter jobs in the north “are of real concern.”
The SDLP MLA was speaking after figures released by the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) showed that 162 firefighter jobs have been cut in the north since 2010, representing more than 8% of the total number of firefighter jobs.
“The figures released by the Fire Brigades Union are of real concern,” Mr McGlone said.
“We depend on the fire and emergency services at times of danger. I have personally witnessed the great work that they do. Firefighters are responsible for rapid deployment to fires, terrorist incidents, civil disturbances, industrial explosions, and other emergencies. They must be properly resourced and staffed at all times.”
The FBU revealed that 21 firefighter jobs have been cut in the north in the last year.
“The service is under increasing pressure and there is a danger that slower response times during multiple incidents will put people’s lives at risk,” McGlone said.
“Recent tragic fires have highlighted the need for a properly funded fire service. I will be seeking assurances that the necessary funding is delivered to ensure all our emergency services are fully resourced and fully staffed.”
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