, Cabinet Secretary for
Housing and Local Government: A year ago, in response to
complaints of bullying, harassment, and similar misconduct
exposed by the media, the Welsh Government appointed
Commissioners to oversee South Wales Fire and Rescue
Service. This came following a report from Fenella Morris
KC into workplace culture and standards of management and
governance in the organisation.
Today, North Wales and Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue
Services published their own independent cultural reviews. They
are available here https://www.northwalesfire.gov.wales/
and here https://www.mawwfire.gov.uk/eng/
The reports contain concerning findings relating to bullying and
harassment, misogyny, discrimination, inappropriate management
styles and promotion based on favouritism. These are incredibly
worrying behaviours which are unacceptable in any workplace.
Similar concerns have been expressed by employees of the Fire and
Rescue Services in other parts of Wales and across the UK,
as both the National Fire Chiefs Council and the Fire Brigades
Union have recognised. Behaviour of this kind must not be
tolerated, and the findings in today's reports must be taken
seriously.
I have met with the Chairs of both Fire and Rescue Authorities
and both Chief Fire Officers to discuss how they plan to address
the reports' findings and I am grateful for their positive
engagement so far. During these meetings I set out my expectation
that clear and decisive action should be taken immediately to
dismantle these damaging cultures and ensure staff feel safe and
valued in their workplace.
I expect both Chairs and Chiefs to act with urgency and purpose
in addressing the issues raised in the reports and in supporting
their staff. I will monitor the situation closely and urgently
work to establish how best to achieve and sustain cultural change
across the Fire and Rescue Service.
I will make a further statement to the Senedd on these issues,
and about the position in South Wales Fire and Rescue Service
following the appointment of Commissioners shortly.
