HSA reviews fire staffing as Halloween looms
by Mehak Dugal
 
The unions, which both represent firefighters, have described the staff shortages as “completely unacceptable.”
The unions, which both represent firefighters, have described the staff shortages as “completely unacceptable.”

Fórsa’s Municipal Employees’ branch executive has unanimously agreed to await a Health and Safety Authority (HSA) review of staff shortages in Dublin fire brigade before considering a ballot for industrial action.

 

The decision was reached an executive meeting last week, in view of Siptu’s decision to move to a ballot despite the fact that the HSA’s investigation is not finished.

 

It came after a Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) hearing on critical staffing levels within Dublin fire brigade late last month. This was adjourned at the request of both unions to allow the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) to investigate and compile their report on the safety issues raised by the unions.

 

Fórsa official Derek Kelleher said the safety of staff and the public was paramount. “The union and its branch executive are continuing to review the situation during this period, and any further developments will be communicated to members” he said.

 

The unions, which both represent firefighters, have described the staff shortages as “completely unacceptable.”

 

The head of Fórsa’s Municipal Employees’ Division, Dessie Robinson, had previously called on Dublin City Council and the local government minister to heed calls for increased staffing and improved working conditions to enhance recruitment into the service.

 

The understaffing concerns are further amplified in the lead-up to Halloween, when firefighters encounter additional risks and workload.

 

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