Fire Service
Dail Éireann — 2026-05-14
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Alan Dillon (FG), Mayo

I agree with the sentiment and point she has raised. I am taking this matter on behalf of the Minister of State with responsibility for local government, whose remit it is to engage with local authorities as those acting as employers for firefighters. In other uniformed services, a request is sometimes made to, for example, the Garda Commissioner as regards gardaí who want to work for an extended period above the normal retirement age. I feel that this is something that could be looked at for the firefighters. It could be utilised, reflecting on the level of knowledge, skill and expertise many firefighters have and the need to hold that in their respective fire stations so as to train those who are new entrants or need years to build up that capacity.
Notwithstanding that, the fire services had a significant campaign just two years ago. The issues at that time were very much focused on recruitment. There is an opportunity for further engagement on the extension of the retirement age that the Deputy is appealing for. How that can be supported, along with the adequate resourcing, is something that local authorities need to continue to review, ensuring that we have essential services delivered by firefighters, we have the infrastructure, training and equipment they need, and we have continuous investment into the sector.
I will certainly take all of this back to the Minister of State, Deputy Cummins, and I will ensure that the Deputy gets the relevant information following the discussion here today.

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Record URI: https://data.oireachtas.ie/akn/ie/debateRecord/dail/2026-05-14/debate/main
Retrieved: 2026-08-14T04:54:56+00:00
Sitting date: 2026-05-14