Motion

Motion TitleHealth Screening and Monitoring for Firefighters

Motion TextThat this Assembly acknowledges the vital role played by firefighters and the significant risks they take to protect the public; notes the findings of the Scottish Firefighters Occupational Cancer and Disease Mortality Rates: 2000–2020 research which state that firefighters are significantly more likely than the general public to die from cancer, heart attack, stroke and other work related illnesses; recognises that routine medicals, fitness testing and occupational health supports are in place; expresses concern that there is still no dedicated cancer screening programme, long term monitoring of disease, or impact of hazardous exposures on firefighters; further notes the Westminster Government’s commitment to introduce a Firefighters’ Concordat to drive improvements in prevention, early diagnosis, long term monitoring and support, as well as to fund research into occupational hazards; and calls on the Minister of Health to engage with his Westminster counterpart, the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service and the Fire Brigades Union to further develop and implement improved health screening and monitoring to help protect firefighters and their families.

Motion CategoryPrivate Members' Motion

Date Tabled to Business Office12/05/2026