asked the Minister for the Environment the steps that are being taken to ensure that fire fighting services operated by local authorities are being maintained at acceptable levels of efficiency.

It is a matter for each local authority to determine the provision to be made to enable them to discharge their fire-fighting responsibilities and it is for the manager to ensure that a satisfactory level of efficiency is maintained. In accordance with the recommendation of the Working Party on the Fire Service a comprehensive examination of the strength and adequacy of the service is currently being carried out in each area. These services are being conducted by the local authorities on lines proposed by the Department and will cover all aspects of the fire service. They provide an opportunity for the local authorities to identify any weaknesses there may be and to decide on action required. The results of the local examinations will also be studied in my Department with a view to dealing with any matters which call for departmental consideration.

The question of central training for fire service personnel to supplement local training is being specially exam-local by a sub-committee of the Local Government Manpower Committee. An interim recommendation relating to training in the use of breathing apparatus has already been implemented. The need for any additional central training provision will be considered when the sub-committee's final report is received.

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