02 April 2012

NI's Chief Fire Officer Announces His Retirement

The Chief Fire Officer for Northern Ireland, Peter Craig, has announced that he is to retire after over 35 years of distinguished Service.

Peter Craig is one of the longest serving officers in Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service and was appointed as Chief Fire Officer in February 2011, having been the acting Chief from July 2010.

With over 3 decades of service in protecting the community in Northern Ireland, Peter is nationally and internationally recognised as a strong, tireless advocate for Community Safety and Prevention. He is credited with ensuring that Northern Ireland has one of the highest smoke alarm ownerships in the UK and that fire deaths are reducing year on year.

Peter Craig, Chief Fire Officer, Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service said: "Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service will always be a big part of me and I am so proud to have served and protected our community over the years with such committed and courageous colleagues. That has been an honour in itself.

"As Chief Fire Officer it has been an absolute privilege to lead an organisation that saves lives and protects the public - an organisation of which I am personally extremely proud. After over 35 years’ service to the public, I am looking forward to my retirement and all the new life adventures that it will bring for my family and me.

"Like every other public body we face many challenges ahead but I am confident that Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service will rise to them and continue to deliver a world class fire and rescue service to ensure the people of Northern Ireland remain safe and also proud of their Firefighters."

Dr Joe McKee, Chairman of the NIFRS Board said: "On behalf of the NIFRS Board, I would want to thank publicly Peter Craig for his contribution to making Northern Ireland a safer place.

"His credentials and proven track record speak clearly for themselves. As the highest ranking fire officer and Chief Executive of the Fire & Rescue Service, he has brought an unrivalled wealth of knowledge and experience to this important job - leading what is a very highly regarded and essential public service.

"Following his retirement announcement, the NIFRS Board will now make arrangements for his succession in June 2012"

(GK)