AQW 39996/11-15 Written question to the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety
To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for an update following his recent meeting with the Chairperson of the Fire and Rescue Service Board, in respect of implementing cost saving measures within the Fire Service.
Asked by Claire Sugden MLA on 9 December 2014
- Answered
- Written
- Tabled
- 9 December 2014
- Answer due by
- 5 January 2015
- Answered
- 18 December 20149 days after tabling
- Department
- Department of Health
- Priority question
- No
Answer
The meeting with The Chairperson of Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service(NIFRS) Board was constructive and allowed an open and frank discussion on the challenges that lie ahead.
NIFRS has been asked to develop a range of savings proposals that could deliver the best possible outcomes under three scenarios, 5%, 10% and 15% reductions. NIFRS has been asked to risk assess and prioritise savings proposals before submission to my Department, on the basis of those that minimise the impact on service delivery, the fire-fighter and public safety will be key considerations.
A decision on NIFRS 2015/16 budget allocations, in common with all ALBs within my Department will only be taken after full consideration has been given to the service delivery impacts identified in each ALBs proposal.