A new recruitment drive on behalf of Donegal Fire Service wants to develop more diversity in their workforce.

The recruitment process, launched recently, is targeting new female recruits for a fire service that currently has no women as staff.

Dermot Brady, Senior Assistant Chief Fire Officer with Donegal Fire Service said:

“It is hard to say why we do not have more female recruits but I think the Fire Service is an excellent choice for many women who want to make an important contribution to their own communities.

“In my own experience in other Fire Services, the contribution of my female colleagues has always been outstanding and women are every bit as capable as any man in dealing with the physical and mental challenges that comes with the job.”

Bernie Murray, a part-time retained Fire Fighter at Achill Fire Station in Co. Mayo said:

“There is no doubt that we women are up for the challenge and I believe that we are as able as our male counterparts when it comes to the fire service.

“I would encourage anyone with an interest in the Fire Service to join but I would advise them to be sure that they are both physically and mentally fit for the job.

“You have to be disciplined and you have to take orders from your Station Officer that’s not to say that your ideas and suggestions are not welcome, they are, but when you are in a life or death situation you must always follow orders and a well disciplined crew is essential.”

Donegal Fire Service is currently advertising for part time retained fire fighters for their stations in Buncrana, Carndonagh, Stranorlar, Dungloe & Falcaragh. Further information on how to apply can be accessed at www.donegalcoco.ie.

Written by Nick Fitzgerald.