In an attempt to better recognise the valued work of volunteers in the emergency services, Luxembourg is introducing further reforms this year.
On Monday 16 January 2017, the Luxembourg Minister of the Interior, Dan Kersch, invited representatives from the emergency services to the traditional New Year reception at the Artikuss reception hall in Soleuvre.
In his introduction, Minister Dan Kersch thanked the numerous volunteers from different units for their devotion during the bad weather the nights of 12 and 13 January 2017. He highlighted the importance of such services, as well as the help provided to flood victims in July last year in Ernz, which show once more the need for volunteers in such situations.
Looking back on 2016, Dan kirsch reviewed the work done with regards to the reorganisation of the administration of emergency services, the implementation of a new alerts system, and the digital telecommunications network RENITA.
In order to further value the work of volunteers in this sector, there are new measures planned for this year to recognise their contribution, such as their own social protection system.
The minister also mentioned the future standardisation of emergency materials and vehicles to be offer mobility to volunteers.
The backbone of the future Grand-Ducal fire and rescue corps will consist of increased, polyvalent, adaptable and high-quality training for all rescue service agents. In this context, the minister insisted that training should remain accessible for volunteers with regard to their family life and daily commitments.
Photo by ASS of Dan Kersch, Luxembourg Minister of the Interior
