Sinn Féin TD for Waterford, Conor McGuinness, has called on the Government to immediately end the mandatory retirement of retained firefighters at the age of 62, accusing it of “saying one thing while doing another” on the issue.

Deputy McGuinness said it was not enough for Government politicians to publicly support extending the retirement age while experienced firefighters continue to be forced out of the service.

Deputy McGuinness said:

“Government politicians cannot continue calling for retained firefighters to be allowed serve until 66 while their own Government continues forcing them into retirement at 62.

“If the Government supports this change, it has the power to make it happen. Retained firefighters do not need sympathetic social media videos or carefully crafted statements. They need action.

“I recently met with retained firefighters and SIPTU representatives, who outlined the serious consequences of forcing experienced firefighters to retire while stations across the country continue to struggle with recruitment and retention.

“This is an issue that affects communities across Ireland, including here in Waterford, where retained firefighters provide an essential emergency service in many towns and rural areas.

“It makes no sense whatsoever to force highly trained and experienced firefighters out of the service at 62 when they are still medically fit to serve. An annual medical assessment is already in place to ensure firefighters remain capable of carrying out their duties safely.

“It is equally unacceptable that firefighters can be forced into retirement only to spend four years relying on unemployment supports before qualifying for the State pension.

“The Government cannot continue claiming to support extending the retirement age while allowing compulsory retirements to continue. Immediate action is needed to stop further firefighters being forced out of the service, alongside permanent legislation extending the retirement age in line with the State pension age of 66.

“Retained firefighters have waited long enough. They deserve action, not political gaslighting.”