asked the Minister for the Environment if he will outline the progress made to date in implementing the recommendations of the Stardust Tribunal of Inquiry; if he has satisfied himself that the resources of the fire brigade services are adequate to meet any foreseeable situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Fire Services.
24.
The recommendations of the tribunal are wide ranging and constitute a significant input to the ongoing development of Government policy concerning fire safety and the fire services generally. Many of the recommendations have been implemented. Others, of their nature, require implementation on an on-going basis and this is being done.
Significant progress has been made in the development of the fire service and in fire safety generally in this decade. Areas in which progress has been made are the legislative and regulatory framework; capital investment in modern fire stations, appliances and equipment; staff structure, training and training facilities; and emergency planning.
I am satisfied that the development which has taken place has significantly strengthened the capacity of the service to respond to fires and other emergencies, and to engage in fire prevention activities.
Because of the complexity of the issues involved progress in some matters has not been as rapid as one would like. I can, however, assure the Deputy of the Government's commitment and my own to assist fire authorities in the development of the service, and of fire safety generally as quickly and as comprehensively as possible. An indication of that commitment is the fact that, despite the current financial constraints on public expenditure, the capital provision for the fire service in 1988 is, in fact, being increased over the present year's provision by almost 40 per cent. This will ensure that the necessary progress in the provision of modern fire stations, training facilities, appliances and ancillary equipment will continue.