The Metropolitan Fire Service (MFS) in regional South Australia is facing significant challenges, according to a recent report by former Tasmania Fire Service chief Dermot Barry. The report, obtained by the ABC through Freedom of Information, highlights the service's underfunding, under-resourcing, and overall inefficiency, particularly in stations like Port Pirie and Mount Gambier. This issue has sparked concern among the United Firefighters' Union (UFU) and the community, who fear the potential for a catastrophic event due to the service's shortcomings.
The report reveals a dire situation, with over 80% of regional firefighters surveyed expressing doubts about the fitness of their stations, trucks, and equipment for their intended purpose. Additionally, almost 80% of retained firefighters believe they lack sufficient training. The training disparity between career and retained firefighters is stark, with retained staff receiving just six days of initial training compared to 16 weeks for career recruits. This discrepancy raises concerns about the service's ability to respond effectively to emergencies.
The MFS's fleet management is another area of concern. Mount Gambier, a timber processing hub, has experienced gaps in its fleet, including the Combined Aerial Pump Appliance (CAPA), which was away for servicing during the critical fire season. This situation highlights the potential delay in response times and the risk it poses to the community and firefighters alike.
The UFU's secretary, Peter Russell, emphasizes the need for a significant funding injection to address the service's shortcomings. He points out that the MFS's funding per head of population is the lowest in the country, at $154, compared to the national average of $250. This funding disparity directly impacts the service's ability to provide adequate training and resources, leading to member dissatisfaction and a potential risk to the community.
Despite the MFS's efforts to implement some recommendations, the UFU argues that many issues persist. The service's response to the report's findings has been mixed, with a spokesperson acknowledging the implementation of some recommendations but also highlighting ongoing challenges. The government, through Emergency Services Minister Rhiannon Pearce, has committed to providing support, recognition, and compensation for firefighters, including pay raises, new appliances, and expanded cancer compensation.
However, the UFU and community remain concerned about the long-term sustainability of the MFS. The report's findings underscore the need for a comprehensive review and a substantial funding boost to ensure the service's effectiveness and the safety of regional communities. The potential for a catastrophic event, as highlighted by the UFU, serves as a stark reminder of the urgency of addressing these issues.
