On 7 November 2016, I was honoured to take up the role as Chief Fire & Rescue Officer.  It was a huge honour personally and professionally to be appointed to lead our Service.  There have been many highlights, and indeed challenges, during my first year as Chief.  Without doubt, the key highlight of the year was meeting and engaging with you, our people.

As I write this blog the festive season is well under way and there are only a few more sleeps until Christmas Day. In the midst of all the hustle and bustle I wanted to take a moment to reflect on, and say a big thank you, to all staff at Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service for their hard work throughout the year.

At our recent Employee Awards, I was privileged to recognise a number of colleagues for their dedication, professionalism and attitude. It was clear to me that they are passionate about what they do and made me think about what makes a good employee.