Courts / Dublin / Report

Significant steps taken in dispute over firefighters breathing equipment

Summary

The High Court has adjourned proceedings in a dispute between the Irish Fire and Emergency Service Association (IFESA) and Dublin City Council (DCC) over alleged unsafe breathing equipment. IFESA, representing 300 of the city's 800 firefighters, initiated High Court action in January following equipment failures during a blaze in Dolphin's Barn. The association sought injunctions to restrain the use of Scott ACSfx breathing apparatus until independently tested and deemed safe, and to order DCC to withdraw current stock. DCC rejects claims that the equipment is defective, noting it is used internationally, including by the New York City Fire Department. During the hearing before Mr Justice Paul Gilligan, counsel for IFESA stated that matters had moved significantly since January. An expert report by the Dublin Fire Brigade recommended enhanced procedures to test, monitor, and review the equipment, along with improved training and communication. Counsel indicated these steps were taken by DCC as a result of the High Court action. Consequently, IFESA decided not to pursue its application for interlocutory injunctions. DCC did not oppose the adjournment. Mr Justice Gilligan agreed to adjourn the matter to a date in late May for mention only, allowing the parties to work out a timetable for the exchange of legal documents before a trial date can be fixed. The case has been adjourned on several occasions since permission was granted in January for IFESA and three members to serve short notice of injunction proceedings.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Significant steps taken in dispute over firefighters breathing equipment. Procedural stage: hearing_or_decision

When:

• 2014-04-30 Publication

Why: Counsel added that these steps were taken by DCC because of the High Court action brought by his clients. CNI source report

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Hearing Or Decision

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Read the original CNI report