NZFS and NRFA welcome appointment of new Chair

25 February 2016

The appointment of Paul Swain as incoming Chair of the New Zealand Fire Service Commission will help guide the organisation through a period of significant change.

Internal Affairs Minister Hon Peter Dunne announced the appointment today.

Paul Baxter, Chief Executive & National Commander of the New Zealand Fire Service said the appointment is welcome.

“As Commission Chair, Paul Swain brings a wealth of experience from his time in both central and local government.”

“He is a member of the Greater Wellington Regional Council and a former electorate Member of Parliament and Cabinet Minister, having held a wide range of portfolios.

“Of particular note is his role as Chair of the 2012 Fire Review Panel which looked into the provision of fire services, including mandate, funding arrangements and effectiveness. The current Fire Services Review is the next stage in that process,” he said.

National Rural Fire Officer Kevin O’Connor said Mr Swain would bring a strong governance focus to the role.

“He is the right person to lead us during this period.”

The appointment of Paul Swain follows the pending retirement of New Zealand Fire Service Commissioner Rt Hon Wyatt Creech.

“I would like to thank Wyatt and the current Commission members for their hard work and commitment on behalf of local communities across New Zealand,” said Paul.

Current Deputy Chair David McFarlane (appointed to the Commission in 2009) and members Rangi Wills (appointed in 2012), Angela Hauk-Willis (appointed in 2011) and Vicki Caisley (appointed in 2010) will continue to serve until 31 March 2016.

The New Zealand Fire Service Commission is a Crown entity that oversees the New Zealand Fire Service and the National Rural Fire Authority.

ENDS

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