To consider Report CFO/010/19 of the Chief Fire Officer, concerning the release of the draft 2019-21 Supplement to the Integrated Risk Management Plan (IRMP) 2017-20 for a period of 12 weeks’ consultation prior to adoption and implementation, whilst noting that the proposals outlined within the IRMP may change to reflect the views expressed during the consultation process.

Members considered report number CFO/010/19 of the Chief Fire Officer, concerning the release of the draft 2019-21 Supplement to the Integrated Risk Management Plan (IRMP) 2017-20 for a period of 12 weeks’ consultation prior to adoption and implementation, whilst noting that the proposals outlined within the IRMP may change to reflect the views expressed during the consultation process.

Members were informed that following on from the Budget Strategy Day on 24th January 2019, Officers had been lobbying the Government extensively to secure additional funding for a long term investment in MFRA. However, in the short-term, the position would not be altered; and MFRA will need to continue to deliver against the proposals within the current IRMP.

Members were advised that the recent challenges and emerging risks, had given Officers some cause for concern. This has prompted the proposals within the 2019-21 IRMP Supplement, which if approved will result in a re-investment in front line services for the first time in a long time. 

It was highlighted to Members that the National Framework places a duty on FRA’s to assess all foreseeable risk, locally and nationally; and put arrangements in place to enable them to reduce or address those risks. Members were informed that such considerations have been given when identifying the proposals within the draft 2019-21 IRMP Supplement.

They were advised that the proposals would see an improvement in our resilience and emergency response, by having up to 30 fire appliances available day and night (a combination of wholetime and retained). This would be achieved by introducing multiple fire engines at three stations, in a “hybrid” model, with each providing 2 fire engines immediately available during the day with 1 retained; and 1 fire engine immediately available during the night with 2 retained.  Members were advised that if this is implemented, night-time cover would remain at Liverpool City and Wallasey Community Fire Stations.

The proposals around investment in Protection, were then highlighted to Members, which would see an increase in the Protection establishment by 5 Protection Officers, the introduction of a Fire Engineer role; and support the development of a new management information system. Members were informed that these proposals would address issues raised within the HMICFRS 1^st Tranche Report and the Hackett Review.

In terms of response, Members were informed that the proposals are to increase the number of Firefighter roles from 620 to 642, establish a ridership factor of 5 at key locations, re-establish Crew Managers at key locations; and maintain night time cover at Liverpool City and Wallasey. Response to terrorist attacks and marine/ flood related incidents, will also be enhanced; and specialist appliances will be re-distributed to align with the new hybrid model.   

Members were advised that the proposed changes require the Authority to invest £1m, so as previously approved, underspend will be utilised to reduce debt, in order to release the revenue required. 

Members were informed that the proposals will also enable MFRA to continue to recruit Firefighters, staff the Combined Platform Ladder on  ...  view the full minutes text for item 5