Media | Local News

Firefighter masks rollout bogged by Labor delays

16th January 2020

Volunteers are being sent to fire frontlines without new protective breathing equipment promised by the Palaszczuk Labor Government more than 12 months ago.

LNP Leader Deb Frecklington said Labor announced “thousands of personnel” were to be issued with negative pressure masks (P3 masks)*, but only 200 have since been issued.

“Queensland’s firefighters need to be able to do their job with the best protective equipment available, but Labor has let them down,” Ms Frecklington said.

“Queensland communities have been devastated by fires in recent years but not have even those conditions have been enough to prompt Labor to act and get these masks fully deployed.

“Whether its failing to complete hazard reduction burns or rolling out masks for firefighters, the Palaszczuk Labor Government has a culture of not hitting targets.

“Annastacia Palaszczuk has failed to provide basic resources to our firefighters.

“There is nothing more important than breathing equipment to allow our heroic firefighters to protect the public and property.”

* https://newsroom.psba.qld.gov.au/Content/Home/Home/Article/More-protection-for-Queensland-s-frontline-fire-and-emergency-services-/-2/-2/14544