Vol. 546 No. 1
137 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if all emergency services under the aegis of his Department are up to modern standards with particular refer ence to fire services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31314/01]
138 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if he has satisfied himself that the emergency services under his Department are sufficiently modernised and equipped to deal with all possible emergencies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31315/01]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 137 and 138 together.
Fire and emergency services are provided primarily by the local authorities acting, as appropriate, in conjunction with the other emergency services locally. My Department supports these services through a range of functions, including sponsoring the legislation underpinning the fire service, funding – which I have substantially increased during my term of office – the development and updating of an emergency planning framework and guidelines and the promotion of training and other initiatives. I am satisfied that the fire and emergency services stand prepared and capable of providing an adequate and effective response to emergencies.
However, in pursuing my Department's role of oversight of fire and emergency services, earlier this year I initiated a major review of fire safety and fire services in Ireland. The final report of the consultants engaged to assist in the review is expected very shortly and it will help inform the development of policy for the future direction of the local authority fire and emergency services.
In relation to planning for emergencies, in the light of recent international events, my Department has asked local authorities to review their major emergency plans and local plans to ensure that they were up to date and effective. In addition, the Government task force on emergency planning meets on a regular basis to ensure that preparations are in place for a co-ordinated response to possible nuclear, chemical or biological threats. The task force monitors the current security assessment of threats and ensures that plans are in place for emergency services response to any threats arising.
Question No. 139 answered with Question No. 135.
