Authority Representation at Walesfire 2006, Llandudno, 8 – 10 May 2006

In recent years the Walesfire conference has been held in Tenby, West Wales and up until 2002 was organised by this Authority. Last year the principal responsibility for organising the event was taken up by the Community Fire Safety Trust, Atal Tân Cymru/Fire Brake Wales with the support of all three fire and rescue services in Wales and the Welsh Assembly Government. This year a further change will be introduced as the conference will be held at the North Wales Conference Centre, Llandudno, with the conference sessions extending over two days.This will also be the first Walesfire conference to be held since responsibility for fire matters formally transferred to the Welsh Assembly Government. Details of the programme are currently being finalised but it is anticipated that a wide range of industry experts both from the UK and the international fire safety scene will feature.

Historically the Authority has supported Walesfire with an attendance of eight Members and Members are asked to determine the attendance for Walesfire 2006.If the Authority chose to support a similar arrangement of eight Members this year, a total approximate cost (excluding travel) of £2400 would be incurred.

Members will also be aware that the three Fire and Rescue Authorities in Wales will be celebrating their tenth anniversary this year and North Wales Fire and Rescue Authority have tentatively raised the possibility of holding a lunchtime reception to mark the occasion during the Walesfire conference. Members are asked therefore whether or not they would wish to support such an event in principle. No indication of costings have as yet been received.