National Campaign Seeks More Retained Firefighters as Cork Fire Stations Look to Bolster Ranks

• Cork's fire stations could benefit from a new national recruitment drive aimed at finding more retained firefighters willing to balance emergency response duties with their day jobs.

The National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management has launched a nationwide campaign to support local authorities, including Cork County Council and Cork City Council, in their ongoing efforts to recruit retained firefighters. While 562 new retained firefighters have joined services across Ireland since September 2023, some stations still require additional personnel to ensure adequate coverage.

The campaign highlights the unique dual role these community heroes play, often juggling full-time careers as mechanics, electricians, retail workers, engineers, or parents whilst remaining on-call to protect their neighbours when emergencies strike.

Minister James Browne TD launched the initiative, stating:

"Although having other jobs, retained firefighters are fully trained and are there to protect life and property within our communities. Our campaign emphasises the commitment and courage of retained firefighters who often have other full or part-time jobs including mechanics, electricians, parents, retail workers, engineers, and factory workers."

The Minister added:

"They are the people across our communities who are on-call to respond to a range of emergencies. And when the call comes, they are ready to drop whatever they are doing to help protect their community."

Keith Leonard, Director of the NDFEM, emphasised their vital community role:

"Retained firefighters play a vital role within their communities and the Fire and Rescue Services around Ireland. They can be called upon to tackle a wide range of emergency situations, often within a short timeframe, and are dedicated to serving the communities in which they live."

The campaign features two serving retained firefighters: carpenter Ed Gallagher from Laois Fire Service and pre-school owner Deborah Hickie from County Clare. Their stories showcase how diverse professionals can successfully combine their primary careers with emergency response duties.

To qualify, applicants must be able to reach their designated fire station within five to eight minutes of receiving a call on their pager, typically requiring them to live or work within one mile of the station. Retained firefighters commit to being available for calls for a minimum of 24 weeks per year, with opportunities for additional voluntary coverage.

The NDFEM is encouraging employers across Cork and Ireland to support the campaign by informing employees about opportunities and facilitating applications. Businesses employing retained firefighters gain the added benefit of having highly trained emergency professionals on-site who can assist during workplace emergencies.

Cork residents interested in joining their local fire service should visit FireIreland.ie for comprehensive information about becoming a retained firefighter, contact their nearest fire station, or monitor Cork County Council and Cork City Council recruitment pages for upcoming opportunities.