The Norbiton based Fire Brigade Union has release the following statement in response to criticism in the final report looking into the Grenfell Tower Fire 7 years ag0

The publication of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 Report marks another important moment in the process of learning the lessons from the tragedy of the Grenfell Tower fire. The Grenfell Inquiry has been a catalyst for deep institutional transformation within London Fire Brigade (LFB). The report can be read here.

London Fire Commissioner Andy Roe said: “On this day, our thoughts remain with the 72 people who lost their lives, the survivors, their families, and the entire Grenfell community. We must never forget the impact the tragedy has had on that community.

“On the night of the fire, the Brigade faced the most formidable challenge that any fire service in the UK has confronted in living memory. Staff responding to the fire on the night of the tragedy, as well as members of other emergency services who attended in support of the Brigade, showed extreme courage in the face of the most appalling of circumstances.

“In 2019, the Brigade accepted every recommendation from the Phase 1 report and we have since implemented significant changes to how we operate. This year, we completed every recommendation directed at us as part of Phase 1. We have introduced important policies, new equipment, improved training and better ways of working, particularly in how we respond to fires in high-rise residential buildings, and Londoners are safer as a result. This was evidenced at the awful fire in Dagenham late last month.

“While we are now better prepared to respond to high-rise fires, we are not complacent. We are in dialogue with the Government and Mayor of London as we all look at what must be done to ensure that buildings in London are safe. We will continue to collaborate with them, advocating for improved standards in the built environment to ensure greater safety.

“We recognise the importance of the Inquiry’s findings and recommendations. We will set out an action plan, detailing our response to each recommendation, in due course. This will be developed following consultation and in collaboration with the Grenfell community and our Community Forum.”