LISTEN - Stormont MLA offers to rejoin fire service during covid-19 pandemic

by Gráinne Connolly

Stormont Assembly Member Robbie Butler, who is a former firefighter, has offered to re-join the fire service during the coronavirus pandemic. 

Mr Butler served the force for 16 years but left to get involved in local politics in 2014. 

(MLA Robbie Butler)

The MLA told Q Radio he contacted the NIFRS Chief back in March about the possibility of rejoining his comrades, as they battle the covid-19 crisis. 

He said the fire service is currently monitoring its staffing situation but at the moment staff are coping.

"I have to say I felt rather impotent, I know that as an MLA I have a role to play in terms of legislation and being a scrutineer. 

"But the reality for most of is that the best thing we can do is stay at home when we don't need to be out and about. 

"When I thought about the investment that had been made in me over 16 years as a firefighter and an officer, those skills and operational experiences don't leave you. 

"I knew that if there was an opportunity that would arise through the time of this crisis and if I could go back and support those men and women who work on the frontline in the fire service, that I would absolutely want to do that.

It emerged earlier this week, 7.5% of the NIFRS workforce is in self-isolation which equates to 147 members of staff, due to displaying covid-19 symptoms or a family member showing symptoms. 

Meanwhile, the Lagan Valley representative said this time of year is already a busy time for firefighters, particularly with battling gorse fires. 

However, he said now they have the added pressure of a health emergency. 

Meanwhile, Mr Butler has urged anyone with a former skill or occupation which can assist the emergency services during the pandemic, to come forward and offer support. 

"I think it is important if you have experience, as we've seen with retired nurses, doctors and care workers stepping into the frontline and taking up that opportunity to serve, it is important if an investment has been made in any investment that we give that back. 

"I would dearly love at some stage if it is possible to support my former colleagues in that manner, whether that be in an operational context which I would love or a support mechanism."