To consider the report relating to the IRMP 2021-24 Final Update (CFO/76/24).

The Chief Fire Officer, Phil Garrigan, presented the report which provided Members with a final update on the IRMP 2021-2024.

Members were provided an update on specific proposals within the IRMP that were showing as amber/red.

Members were advised that the introduction of a Scorpion appliance into St Helens Station had formed part of the IRMP proposals and further work was underway on the vehicle to ensure it had the right kit and equipment on board before being made available for use. It was noted that the procurement process for this appliance had been delayed by factors outside of the Authority’s control and it was believed that the introduction of this appliance would be achieved before the end of March.

With regards to the proposal for joint working with NWAS, it was explained that national discussions were underway with regard to the role of Fire and Rescue Services more broadly and the role of a firefighter remained part of those discussions. The Authority was committed to continue working with other emergency services and it awaited the outcome of those national discussions as to how emergency medical response would be envisioned.

Members were advised that the rest of the IRMP proposals were green (complete) and the Chief Fire Officer pointed out some highlights of the IRMP including the introduction of the hybrid duty system at Kirkdale, combining Aintree and Croxteth fire stations and the creation of the new Training and Development Academy and National Resilience Centre of Excellence.

With regards to specialist capabilities, Members were advised of the relocation of the Combined Platform Ladder appliance from Kirkdale to Liverpool City Centre to better align with the number of high rise buildings in that locality.

Finally, Members were advised that the Authority’s process for IRMP planning had been very positively evaluated externally by Liverpool John Moores University. 

Members commended the Authority on its proactive approach and the Chief Fire Officer acknowledged the impactful work of Deb Appleton and her team in managing the IRMP.

Councillor Page noted the positive impact of targeting the most vulnerable parts of the community and commented that achieving those results for the people of Merseyside was pleasing to see.

Councillor Thompson noted that the Authority had attained these significant achievements at a time when complex pressures outside of the Authority’s control were in place, and that should be recognised.

RESOLVED that the outcomes from the IRMP 2021/24 be noted.