CLARIFICATION OF NIRC POSITION – AVIATION FIRE SERVICES AND COMMUNITY SAFETY

Norfolk Island Regional Council (NIRC) would like to allay concerns about public safety regarding fire services on Norfolk Island.

As previously stated, Fire Services will continue to respond to real and potential emergency situations, both during and outside of normal work hours, as has always been the expectation of the service.

NIRC is continuing to work with fire services staff to find appropriate staffing coverage for the Airport to ensure airside support of all scheduled passenger flights, while balancing workforce fatigue and appropriate levels of overtime. This is an important aspect of delivering the service to ensure long-term worker safety.

In regard to the Enterprise Agreement with fire services staff, NIRC is continuing to negotiate the agreement with the UFUA on behalf of fire services workers. NIRC has recently received communication from the UFUA and is in the process of responding.