Agenda item

The Chair introduced the discussion paper, which sets out the current context for fire and rescue authorities, and poses a number of questions on the future of the service.

There was a short discussion during which members made a number of comments:

·         The role of the FRS is being reshaped but we should not forget the core business of a firefighter and the importance of resilience.

·         As the role expands to cover the wider prevention agenda fire fighters could become National Safety Officers working with both health and the police.

·         Budget constraints mean authorities cannot afford more specialist officers, every officer must have the full range of skills. Authorities would benefit from more flexibility from national negotiating of terms and conditions.

Action

Officers to consult with members for their responses on the fire fighter for the 21^st century