Labour stands with Dublin Fire Brigade workers
Labour stands with Dublin Fire Brigade workers - The Labour Party
Labour’s Duncan Smith TD has expressed his support for members of Dublin Fire Brigade who have voted to take industrial action in response to the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage’s plan to introduce a new Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system. Dublin Fire Brigade, represented by SIPTU, have raised concerns that the proposed changes could weaken the effectiveness of the Fire Based Emergency Medical Service in Dublin. Deputy Smith has called on Minister James Browne to engage directly with workers to resolve these issues.
Deputy Smith said:
“Firefighters and paramedics play a vital role in protecting our communities, and it is only right that they are fully consulted on any changes to how their work is organised. It is not acceptable that a new dispatch system would be imposed without their input. Their experience and expertise must inform decisions that affect public safety.
“The existing Fire Based Emergency Medical Service has shown its value in countless situations, including the tragic attack on schoolchildren in Parnell Square in November 2023. As outlined by SIPTU, on that day paramedics were on site within minutes because Dublin Fire Brigade resources were dispatched quickly and effectively. The concern is that under the proposed CAD system, such a rapid response would not be possible, which could put members of the public at risk.
“These are reasonable and serious points being raised by frontline workers. It is not a question of resisting change for the sake of it – it is about ensuring that any change strengthens, rather than weakens, the emergency response we rely on.
“I am asking Minister James Browne to meet with Dublin Fire Brigade representatives and SIPTU without delay. Constructive engagement is the best way to move forward and to avoid unnecessary conflict. Workers must have confidence that the system they use every day supports them to do their job to the highest standard. Government should take this opportunity to work with them and ensure that any new dispatch arrangements meet the needs of both workers and the public.”