Chief Fire Officers and senior fire service leaders from across Ireland will gather at the Radison Blu Hotel, Sligo this week for the Chief Fire Officers’ Association (CFOA) Annual Conference, hosted by Sligo Fire Service on behalf of Sligo County Council and the Chief Fire Officers’ Association.
National Chief Fire Officers’ Conference in Sligo to Focus on Prevention and Preparedness
The 2026 conference centres on the theme “Safeguarding Tomorrow: A Prevention‑First Approach to Evolving Risks,” reflecting the increasingly complex and interconnected challenges facing Fire and Rescue Services nationwide.
Welcoming delegates to Sligo, the Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council, Cllr Dónal Gilroy said the conference highlights the county’s commitment to public safety and community resilience:
“Sligo County Council is proud to host this important national conference and to welcome fire service leaders from across the country. The work of our Fire and Rescue Services is vital to protecting lives, property and communities, and this conference underlines the importance of prevention, preparedness and collaboration in meeting the challenges of the future.”
Speaking ahead of the event, Marian Coakley, Sligo’s Chief Fire Officer and Conference Secretary, said the conference comes at a critical time for the fire service:
“The risks facing Fire and Rescue Services are evolving rapidly. From regulatory compliance and community fire safety, to emergency preparedness, climate‑driven severe weather events and emerging technological risks, our operating environment continues to change. This conference provides an important opportunity to examine how a strong prevention‑first approach can support safer, more resilient communities.”
Delegates will hear, prevention extends beyond structural fire safety and public awareness campaigns alone. It encompasses effective training, appropriate resourcing, operational readiness, leadership and organisational resilience – ensuring Fire and Rescue Services are not only prepared to respond to incidents, but are actively working to prevent harm and mitigate risk wherever possible.
Set against Sligo’s Atlantic coastline and distinctive landscape, the conference location provides a fitting backdrop for discussions on foresight, resilience and preparedness. The programme has been designed to promote informed discussion and shared learning across key areas, including leadership, risk management, workforce development, training, innovation and the effective deployment of resources.
Ms Coakley also highlighted the importance of collaboration across the sector:
“The Chief Fire Officers’ Association continues to play a vital leadership role in supporting safer communities through collaboration, innovation and professional excellence. The conversations that take place at this conference will extend well beyond the event itself, strengthening cooperation and shared learning across Fire and Rescue Services.”
The conference will also feature a trade exhibition showcasing innovation and best practice, with exhibitors acknowledged for their ongoing support of the Association and the wider fire service.
Fire Officers from across Ireland, along with speakers, exhibitors and guests, are expected to attend the two‑day event, which aims to reinforce the sector’s shared commitment to preparedness, prevention and collaboration.