Diversity Quota for Female Firemen

(UK) British fire departments have been put on notice regarding new diversity quotas for female firemen. At least 15 percent of firemen in operational roles must be women. In practice, the new requirement would specify that at least one woman has to be on every fire truck.

Officials at the Local Government Association, which is pressing the quotas on fire authorities, said that an increased number of women firemen is necessary 'to meet the needs of local people'.

But critics warn that they are placing their targets above the need for fitness and strength.

Susie Squire, of the Taxpayers' Alliance, said: 'Introducing this sort of quota to the fire service is a big mistake. If ever there was a job that should be awarded on merit and physical fitness, it is that of a firefighter.

'It is ludicrous that political correctness is being put above the ability to save lives.'

I don't know. If I were trapped in a burning building, I'd much prefer having a 190-pound fireman rather than a 120-pound firewoman trying to save me.