NIFRS Follow-up Inspection Report Published

Date published: 28 January 2026

The inspection led by HM Chief Inspector of the Scottish Fire & Rescue Service, Robert Scott QFSM reported significant progress across NIFRS since the independent review was carried out in 2022–23.

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 progressing 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, who’s 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 commissioned HMFSI to inspect NIFRS during 2022–23 when the service faced significant 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 has now confirmed notable improvements. Leadership stability has strengthened through substantive senior, middle and supervisory level appointments and a restructuring at middle manager roles, with the introduction of Station Managers on each of NIFRS stations. HMFSI has reported a more collaborative organisational culture, a clearer focus on risk and stronger alignment between executive leadership, the Board and the Department.

Progress has also been made in digital modernisation towards the replacement of key corporate and command systems, alongside the publication of a comprehensive Community Risk Management Plan and dedicated work to align operational policy and practice with National Operational Guidance. The opening of the new Learning and Development College in Cookstown represents a major improvement in training capacity supported by significant Departmental investment, with further work underway to develop strategy and instructor capacity.

The Department continues to work on a formal Fire and Rescue Framework to strengthen strategic clarity, accountability and alignment with wider Programme for Government outcomes. Work is also advancing to establish an independent inspection and assurance arrangement to provide ongoing external scrutiny of NIFRS beyond previous models.

While some recommendations remain outstanding due to resource pressures, HMFSI notes that the direction of travel is positive and supported by effective partnership working between NIFRS and the Department. Continued political and financial support will be important to sustaining momentum.