MSP Visits retained Firefighters at Maud Fire Station

Banff & Buchan MSP Stewart Stevenson and South Buchan councillor Norma Thomson visited Maud Fire Station and met with local retained firefighters and senior management.

The visit was arranged as a result of a suggestion from staff at Maud that the MSP might like to learn more about the role of retained firefighters and help with publicity for potential new recruits.

Mr Stevenson and Cllr Thomson were met by Stuart Heron, Sub-Officer in Charge at Maud; Gordon Moir, Area Manager, Grampian Fire & Rescue Service; Duncan Smith, Group Manager, Grampian Fire & Rescue Service and staff at Maud for a tour of the premises and discussion on the role of retained firefighters.

Commenting afterwards Mr Stevenson said:

“Retained firefighters in stations such as Maud play a vital role. Indeed, just the day after I visited the firefighters I met were involved in tackling a very serious blaze aboard a fishing boat at Fraserburgh Harbour.

“I was impressed by the commitment and dedication of the staff there who carry out their duties in addition to their day-to-day jobs. The team at Maud Fire Station are very much a part of the community and carry out a lot of fundraising for charities.

“I would encourage local employers to support any of their staff who express an interest in becoming a retained firefighter. There are quite clearly benefits accruing to any employer who has a staff member involved in the fire service, such as excellent first aid skills and risk assessment skills.”