The European Road Safety Charter is a European Commission initiative aimed at improving road safety and halving the number of road deaths by 2010 across Europe.
Minister McGimpsey said: “I would like to congratulate the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service on receiving this Charter. The award is recognition of the Service’s commitment to reducing the number of deaths on Northern Ireland’s roads.
“Firefighters provide an excellent frontline service when responding to Road Traffic Collisions and situations where people are in danger. Through their intervention at road accidents they often help reduce the number of deaths and prevent serious injury.
“They are fully deserving of this recognition."
Minister for the Environment, Arlene Foster also praised the Fire Service on their achievement: “I am delighted to congratulate the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service on becoming a signatory to the European Commission’s Road Safety Charter. Their contribution to saving lives on our roads is already well recognised and I welcome this further commitment which shows that we can all take positive action to help reduce death and injury on our roads.
I would encourage other businesses to consider what they too can do as it will only be when we all take responsibility for our actions that our roads will become safer for everyone.”
NOTES TO EDITORS:
- The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) is responsible for providing fire and rescue services across Northern Ireland and is funded by the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety.
- For media enquiries please contact the DHSSPS Press Office on 028 9052 0505 or DOE Press Office on 028 9054 0013.
