NFIRS inspection update outlines NIFRS improvements since 2022–23 review
Iain Hoey
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NFIRS follow-up inspection findings
A follow-up inspection of Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) has found progress since an independent review in 2022–23.
The findings were published by the Department of Health in a report from His Majesty’s Fire Service Inspectorate (HMFSI).
The inspection was led by Robert Scott QFSM, HM Chief Inspector of the Scottish Fire & Rescue Service.
The Department commissioned HMFSI to inspect NIFRS during 2022–23 when the service faced operational challenges including post-COVID pressures, reduced support capacity and a constrained financial environment.
Eleven recommendations were issued at that time, nine for NIFRS and two for the Department’s Public Safety Unit.
A follow-up inspection was requested in October 2025 and HMFSI reported progress across NIFRS.
Changes described by the report
The report describes leadership stability through substantive senior, middle and supervisory level appointments and a restructuring of middle manager roles.
Station Managers have been introduced on each of the service’s stations.
The report also describes a more collaborative organisational culture, a clearer focus on risk and stronger alignment between executive leadership, the Board and the Department.
It sets out work on digital modernisation towards replacing key corporate and command systems.
It also references the publication of a Community Risk Management Plan and work to align operational policy and practice with National Operational Guidance.
The opening of a Learning and Development College in Cookstown is described as an improvement in training capacity supported by Departmental investment, with further work underway on strategy and instructor capacity.
Health Minister Mike Nesbitt said: “The findings of this inspection are hugely encouraging and highlights that NIFRS has made clear and substantial progress, with strong leadership, improved governance and a renewed focus on professional standards.
“Under the leadership of Aidan Jennings, NIFRS is demonstrating real commitment to modernisation and public protection.
“The progress made to date is substantial and I commend the commitment and expertise of its personnel who continue to serve all communities across Northern Ireland.
“NIFRS is a service that we should be proud of.”
NIFRS Chief Fire & Rescue Officer Aidan Jennings said: “Following the HMFSI comprehensive independent inspection of NIFRS, published in September 2023, we have made positive progress across our Service in addressing its recommendations and it is pleasing to see that this has been recognised by the Inspector.
“This progress would not have been achievable without the support of the Department of Health, NIFRS Board and in particular our people, whose passion and drive is evident to me every day and in every part of our team across Northern Ireland.
“I thank them for their support, for the work they do each day and for their desire to see sustained and continuous improvement of our Service.
“There remains much work to do in delivering our Service, including a number of areas specific to the HMFSI recommendations.
“I am confident that with continued political and financial support we have the vision, ambition and skills at NIFRS to deliver the best service possible to the citizens of Northern Ireland.”
The Department said it is continuing work on a formal Fire and Rescue Framework and is advancing work to establish an independent inspection and assurance arrangement for external scrutiny of NIFRS beyond previous models.
The report also states that some recommendations remain outstanding due to resource pressures and refers to the need for continued political and financial support to sustain momentum.