Alun Davies, Cabinet Secretary for Local Government and Public Services
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
I wish to inform members of the appointment of the Chief Fire and Rescue Adviser for Wales, Andy Fry.
The Chief Fire and Rescue Advisor has a vital role in assisting the Welsh Ministers and officials on matters of operational preparedness, performance, structure and organisation of Fire and Rescue Authorities in Wales.
Andy will take up his full duties at the start of July, when the current incumbent, Des Tidbury, leaves the post. Andy has 30 years’ experience in the Fire Service and has been Chief Fire Officer in the Suffolk and Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Services. He has taken on tough challenges in England and I look forward to working with him.
I would like to thank Des Tidbury for the outstanding job he has done as Chief Fire and Rescue Advisor since 2015. Des’s support across all fire related issues has been invaluable, but I and my colleagues particularly appreciate his work in co-ordinating and overseeing our response to the Grenfell Tower tragedy. I wish him every success in the future.
The Chief Fire and Rescue Advisor is a Crown appointment under the Fire and Rescue Services Act 2004. The Chief Advisor is also legally responsible for inspecting fire safety in all non-military Crown premises in Wales.