THE United Firefighters Union says the public is being put at risk by the continued unavailability of Canberra’s only appliance that can reach fires in buildings above 7 storeys.

“The Bronto aerial platform is again offline, on the same day that UK reformer Mark Jones starts work as Director Strategic Reform Agenda to look at efficiencies in ACT Fire and Rescue,” United Firefighters Union acting secretary Greg McConville said.

“The $15 million strategic reform agenda for ACT’s Emergency Services Agency has so far led to four more senior bureaucrats – while operational response has deteriorated.

“So-called efficiencies are putting pressure on firefighters, stretching resources, and putting the public at risk.

“Since July 1 last year, there have been 40 days on which the Bronto has either been either in the workshop or unavailable.

“The current fault requires parts that could take up to a week to supply.

“At other times the problem is overheating, which means that it can only be driven very slowly.

“Canberra is the equivalent of the Victorian cities of Geelong, Ballarat and Bendigo combined. But while they have four aerial appliances, Canberra has only one – and it’s unreliable and often out for repair.

“Our closest backup is Liverpool, three hours away.

“Instead of investing in more management, we’d be better to pay out Mr Jones’ first year and send him home. The $200,000+ saved on his second year could go to firefighting.

“Canberra needs three (working) aerial firefighting appliances.”

• According to Wikipedia there are 27 Canberra buildings of 9 storeys or more, and two others in construction or proposed. (wikiepedia.org//wiki/List_of_tallest_buildings_in_Canberra)
• In a separate matter the union will today go to the Fair Work Commission over a Commander position that has not been filled despite the selection process being finalised 18 months ago.