The Fire and Rescue Services (National Framework) (Wales) (Revision) (No. 2) Order 2015

EXPLANATORY NOTE

(This note is not part of the Order)

This Order revokes the Fire and Rescue Services (National Framework) (Wales) (Revision) Order 2015 (S.I. 2015/1931 (W. 289)) and re-enacts its provisions in order to correct an error which was identified in the original Order.

Section 21 of the Fire and Rescue Services Act 2004 (“the Act”) requires the Welsh Ministers to prepare a Fire and Rescue National Framework, which must set out priorities and objectives for fire and rescue authorities in Wales and which may provide guidance to fire and rescue authorities in connection with the discharge of any of their functions. Fire and rescue authorities must have regard to the framework in carrying out their functions.

Article 3 of this Order substitutes the Fire and Rescue National Framework for Wales 2016 (“the Framework”) for the Fire and Rescue National Framework for Wales 2012.

The principal differences are that the Framework sets revised priorities for fire and rescue authorities under six key objectives. Those objectives are that fire and rescue authorities should—

(1) continually and sustainably reduce risk and enhance the safety of citizens and communities;

(2) respond swiftly and effectively to incidents;

(3) be clearly and publicly accountable for delivery and funding, manifesting the highest standards of governance;

(4) maintain downward pressure on costs and take all opportunities to realise efficiencies;

(5) work effectively with partners to improve efficiency and citizen and community well-being;

(6) value and develop the workforce to the highest standards.

The Framework has effect from 1 January 2016 and has an open-ended duration. Copies of the Framework may be obtained from Fire Services Branch, Welsh Government, Rhydycar, Merthyr Tydfil, CF48 1UZ. It was published on the Welsh Government website: www.wales.gov.uk on 25 November 2015.

The Welsh Ministers’ Code of Practice on the carrying out of Regulatory Impact Assessments was considered in relation to this Order. As a result, a regulatory impact assessment has been prepared as to the likely costs and benefits of complying with this Order. A copy can be obtained from the Fire Services Branch, Welsh Government, Rhydycar, Merthyr Tydfil, CF48 1UZ or by calling 0300 062 8226.