NIFRS To Recruit Community Firefighters

Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) is recruiting Community Firefighters on a part-time basis in 28 Fire Stations across Northern Ireland.

NIFRS is looking to recruit people who can respond to the following Fire Stations within five minutes of being alerted by pager – Portstewart, Antrim, Carrickfergus, Lisburn, Larne, Crumlin, Portadown, Warrenpoint, Ballynahinch, Newcastle, Lurgan, Crossmaglen, Donaghadee, Dromore, Newtownards, Kilkeel, Ballywalter, Banbridge, Holywood, Enniskillen, Maghera, Belleek, Castlederg, Dromore, Lisnaskea, Newtownstewart, Cookstown and Clogher Fire Stations.

Brian Stanfield, Group Commander, Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service said: "Simply put, NIFRS could not operate without our Community Firefighters as they provide the emergency fire and rescue services to local towns and villages across Northern Ireland.

"It is an extremely rewarding and interesting job. Community Firefighters must be able to quickly respond to emergency call-outs by making their way to the Fire Station within five minutes, where they will meet the rest of their crew.

"Local employers have an equally important role to play in the success of the Community Firefighter system by allowing their employees to become Community Firefighters. Hundreds of local employers across Northern Ireland employ Community Firefighters, benefiting by having someone on site who has developed a wide range of skills and experience including the ability to work as part of a team. NIFRS greatly appreciates the support of local employers in helping provide the best possible fire and rescue service.

"Community Firefighters are paid a retaining fee, emergency call-out payments and a payment to attend a weekly drill night which is 2 hours per week in the evening. Community Firefighters are trained to the highest standards and take part in 12 days training each year to ensure we have the most highly skilled Firefighters to help protect our local communities."

(CD/MH)