Scottish Green MSP calls for more support for firefighters
Scottish Green MSP Maggie Chapman has thrown her support behind the Fire Brigade Union (FBU) call for more support and investment for Scotland’s fire service. Ms Chapman hosted the launch of the FBU’s ‘Firestorm’ report today in the Scottish Parliament.
Ms Chapman is also supporting the Fire Brigades Union DECON campaign to ensure firefighters can protect themselves and their families from the carcinogenic impacts of their jobs
Speaking at the launch event, Ms Chapman said:
“The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service already has insufficient staff, inadequate and out-of-date equipment, crumbling infrastructure, falling training standards and an ageing workforce.
“This means too many appliances are off the run, shifts are not being fully covered, and watches are having to travel further afield than ever before to support other stations. I have heard so many stories of near misses: things that nearly went very wrong but didn’t - just. That is due to the ingenuity, commitment, and dedication of our firefighters. However, this cannot continue.
“All of this is taking its toll on the mental and physical well-being of our firefighters. Scotland, like the rest of the world, is facing the increasing risk of severe wildfires due to climate change. Our fire service must have the facilities, equipment, training, and staff to continue to tackle these challenges and continue to save lives.
“We should not have to wait for a disaster or tragedy to happen to ensure firefighters have the resources they need to do their jobs safely and effectively. Cuts leave scars.”