MPs back hazard pay and insurance cover for firefighters

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Parliament yesterday approved a proposal to grant firefighters hazard pay and insurance cover, following support from its security committee.

The request was submitted by MP Maryam Al Dhaen.

The proposal calls on the government to provide firefighters with a monthly risk allowance in recognition of the dangers involved in their work, along with medical cover through a dedicated insurance scheme.

Al Dhaen told Parliament that the request was long overdue, noting that firefighters currently receive the same job-related allowances as other Interior Ministry staff, despite facing far greater daily risk.

“How can we treat all employees the same,” she said, “when civil defence staff are exposed to fires, collapses, toxic gases and life-threatening hazards on a daily basis?’

She said the current arrangement offered firefighters a job nature allowance and a specialist allowance, which apply across the entire force, and argued that this fell short of recognising the unique dangers of firefighting.

The lawmaker called for a comprehensive insurance umbrella designed to meet the specific risks faced by firefighters.

“We are not asking for luxury, but for justice,” Al Dhaen said. “We are asking for proper health insurance that covers injuries sustained in the line of duty, some of which may require urgent treatment abroad, and life insurance to protect the families of those who lose their lives while saving others.”

She added that such steps would encourage more young Bahrainis to join the profession and reflect the state’s appreciation for the sacrifices made by civil defence staff. Al Dhaen also recalled statements by the Interior Minister in support of reviewing allowances and upgrading support for firefighters.