Galway City welcomed over 400 delegates and 150 exhibitors to the 66th Annual Irish Chief Fire Officers Association (ICFOA) Conference in the Salthill Hotel last week (7-8 May 2025).
Conference delegates were welcomed by Cllr. Peter Keane, Mayor of the City of Galway, and Cllr. Martina Kinane, Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, followed by addresses from Leonard Cleary, Chief Executive of Galway City Council and Uinsinn Finn, Deputy Chief Executive of Galway County Council.
Mayor of the City of Galway, Cllr Peter Keane, welcomed delegates, saying, “The fire service holds a place of immense esteem in our hearts and communities. Your unwavering dedication, bravery, and commitment to protecting lives and property are truly commendable.”
He recognised the unique collaboration between the Galway City and County Local Authorities, where the ‘shared service’ model for the Fire Service, “exemplifies the spirit of cooperation and unity that is essential for effective emergency response. By pooling resources and expertise, we ensure that both urban and rural areas receive the highest standard of fire protection and emergency services. This partnership is a shining example of how working together can lead to greater efficiency and improved outcomes for our communities.”
Leonard Cleary, Chief Executive of Galway City Council also addressed the conference, acknowledging the importance of the Irish Chief Fire Officers Association, “…playing a crucial role in advising our government and other national bodies in areas such as fire service operations and fire safety, building control, and major emergency, amongst others”, with the ICFOA’s expertise and insights proving, “invaluable in shaping policies that ensure the safety and well-being of our communities”.
He continued: “The immediate challenge going forward in Galway City is to expedite the development of our new Headquarters for the Fire Service in the City and a Central Fire Station. Galway City and County Councils will work closely with the Department’s National Directorate in the delivery of these new facilities”.
Mr Cleary noted the investment of the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management’s in both capital and equipment in recent years, and acknowledged, “the work with National Emergency Coordination Group and structures that have been put in place over many years to help local authorities with Major Emergency Management and serious incidents.” Mr Cleary observed that, “We may not have many major emergencies in Ireland, but we have had many serious weather-related events in recent years.”
Galway City Council and Galway County Council work in partnership as two neighbouring local authorities for fire and emergency services, with Galway City Council contributing €5,319,600 for the operation of Galway Fire Service in 2025 in the city.
Galway Fire and Rescue Service lead on operational response, fire prevention/ regulation, major emergency management and community fire safety within the city as well as the county.
Leonard Cleary continued, “Galway Fire and Rescue Service is a progressive fire service with numerous initiatives supporting the west region and nationally and has fostered excellent inter-agency relationships. As with all local authorities, the challenge going forward in Galway is to implement our strategic development plan, which has a specific objective in terms of a new Headquarters and Central Fire Station. Galway City and County Councils will work closely with the Department’s National Directorate in the delivery of these new facilities.”
Mr Cleary welcomed the acceptance of the Agreement on the Retained Fire Fighters Review, “which will ensure delivery of sustainable retained fire service into the future and acknowledge the work of all involved especially the LGMA on behalf of the sector,”.
Mr Cleary closed by thanking all in the Fire and Emergency Service for their dedication and service, saying, “Your work is vital, and your contributions are deeply appreciated. Let us continue to strive for excellence, support each other, and work towards a safer future for all.”