The House will now hear a one minute statement from Deputy Tony Gregory on a matter appropriate to the Minister for Finance.
Adjournment Debate. - Finance Matter.
At this month's meeting of Dublin City Council I asked the City Manager to report the view of the Chief Fire Officer on a matter of recent public controversy — the inability of the fire services turntable ladder to gain entry to the main courtyard in Government Buildings, Merrion Street, Dublin 2. I also asked about the fire officer's view as to whether this lack of access would present any problem for the safety of persons in Government Buildings in the event of an outbreak of fire and whether it would create any problem for firefighters. The City Manager replied that the Chief Fire Officer had reported that while the firefighting water tenders gained access to the main courtyard in the recent exercise at Government Buildings, Merrion Street, the turntable ladder was unable to gain entry. He said that he considered it desirable that the entrance to the courtyard should be capable of admitting a turntable ladder and had so advised the chairman of the Commissioners of Public Works. He said that the chairman had replied that he was having the matter examined and would advise him shortly. The City Manager went on to say that the fire officer had stated that access by turntable ladder could affect the efficiency of firefighting operations. In view of the very definite concerns clearly expressed by the Chief Fire Officer I am hopeful that the Minister will ensure that the necessary arrangements are made to facilitate access by the turntable ladder. I am sure the Minister will agree that in the interests of fire safety generally it is essential that the Government are seen to set a good example. People expect the highest standards to be maintained in Government Buildings. I trust the Minister's reply will bring this controversy to a satisfactory conclusion.
I understand that the report was made by the Deputy Chief Fire Officer. I already addressed the House on this matter in the Adjournment Debate on 12 February last. I note that the Deputy has put down a parliamentary question for answer after the Easter Recess. A press statement was also issued on 6 February last and I can only reiterate what it contained — the standards of fire safety for Government Buildings are set by the proposed buildings regulations, 1983. While these are not statutory provisions, the Office of Public Works abide by them. Given the depth of interest in the matter I am happy to give further details of the facilities which have been provided.
The building has to be looked at in its totality. One hundred per cent of its outer perimeter is accessible by turntable ladder which is more than what is required under the proposed building regulations. Additional fire hydrants have been provided to serve all areas. Dry risers have been provided throughout for firefighting at each floor level and fireman's lifts and staircases have been provided in the refurbished area for firefighting at each floor level and at roof level. I should also like to add that the provision of fire fighting equipment and safety measures are kept under constant review by the commissioner's staff.
The Dáil adjourned at 5.25 p.m. until 10.30 a.m. on Friday 15 March 1991.