The German Fire Brigade Association is advocating for the introduction of a specialized firefighter pension scheme, designed to acknowledge the dedication of long-serving personnel and bolster the appeal of volunteer firefighting.
Karl-Heinz Banse, President of the Association, emphasized the need for tangible recognition for those who commit years to active service. Speaking to the “Neue Osnabrücker Zeitung” Banse suggested options such as additional pension points or the possibility of earlier retirement without financial penalties. He stated, “If firefighters have served for 20 or 30 years, there must be a benefit for them” and urged a renewed focus on the issue.
While current membership levels remain stable thanks to significant investment in youth engagement, Banse cautioned against the impact of demographic shifts. He projects that in four to five years, many experienced leaders will retire, creating a potential staffing shortage. The association is already incorporating technology like firefighting robots to mitigate this challenge, but believes it will not be sufficient on its own.
The proposal for a firefighter pension is not new, having been discussed within political and professional circles for several years without resulting in concrete action. Banse stressed the need for society to demonstrate its appreciation for the fire service beyond words, advocating for tangible incentives. “We need to create incentives – and not just with occasional speeches, but also with actual action” he stated.