16/10/2012
Poots Calls For Change In NI Fire Service
Edwin Poots has called for a Fire and Rescue Service which operates with "integrity and transparency".
The Health Minister was briefing MLAs on the results of recent investigations and reviews into the running of the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS).
Minister Poots said: "Our Fire and Rescue Service is one of our most crucial public services. It is there to protect and help our community. Every year, many lives are saved and properties protected by dedicated fire fighters - who often have to deal with very challenging and dangerous situations. We all owe them a huge debt of gratitude.
"Our fire fighters need to work in an organisation that commands the respect of all – an organisation that is managed effectively and efficiently, with integrity and transparency, with a clear sense of accountability to the public. Unfortunately, there have been instances where the management and governance of the Fire and Rescue Service have been called into question."
The report was published following recent irregularities within the NIFRS, including the revelation that unapproved bonuses had been paid to senior officers without approval from the Department of Health.
The Minister highlighted four steps that the organisation must take.
He spoke of a need for fundamental change at NIFRS headquarters and for all existing grievances and complaints to be drawn to a conclusion as soon as possible.
The Minister also said NIFRS employees need to be encouraged to get behind their management team to move the organisation forward and that full and open accountability from the Service must be assured.
He said: "The reports contain a wide range of recommendations for change, which I will expect NIFRS management, working closely with my officials, to take forward expeditiously over the coming months."
(IT)
The Health Minister was briefing MLAs on the results of recent investigations and reviews into the running of the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS).
Minister Poots said: "Our Fire and Rescue Service is one of our most crucial public services. It is there to protect and help our community. Every year, many lives are saved and properties protected by dedicated fire fighters - who often have to deal with very challenging and dangerous situations. We all owe them a huge debt of gratitude.
"Our fire fighters need to work in an organisation that commands the respect of all – an organisation that is managed effectively and efficiently, with integrity and transparency, with a clear sense of accountability to the public. Unfortunately, there have been instances where the management and governance of the Fire and Rescue Service have been called into question."
The report was published following recent irregularities within the NIFRS, including the revelation that unapproved bonuses had been paid to senior officers without approval from the Department of Health.
The Minister highlighted four steps that the organisation must take.
He spoke of a need for fundamental change at NIFRS headquarters and for all existing grievances and complaints to be drawn to a conclusion as soon as possible.
The Minister also said NIFRS employees need to be encouraged to get behind their management team to move the organisation forward and that full and open accountability from the Service must be assured.
He said: "The reports contain a wide range of recommendations for change, which I will expect NIFRS management, working closely with my officials, to take forward expeditiously over the coming months."
(IT)
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