New Strathclyde fire brigade museum opens
Strathclyde Fire and Rescue Service has opened a new museum celebrating the brigade's history and heritage.
The centre features exhibits ranging from hand-drawn pumps and the first breathing apparatus sets to today's state-of-the-art equipment.
There are also displays on major incidents including the Kilbirnie Street and Stockline disasters and the Glasgow Airport terror attack.
Mr Sweeney said he believed the centre would become a big tourist attraction.
The museum is the result of a partnership between the brigade, Inverclyde Council and the Strathclyde Fire and Rescue Preservation Group.
Mr Sweeney said: "The opening of this museum could not have come at a more appropriate moment - as we move towards a single Scottish Fire Service, which will herald the end of Strathclyde Fire and Rescue as a separate entity, it is fitting that we look back and celebrate the region's proud firefighting history and heritage.
"Thanks to the work of the Preservation Group, the equipment and vehicles in the museum have been lovingly restored and are in working order, ensuring these exhibits will be preserved for generations to come.
"Along with the Preservation Group and our own head of corporate support, Iain Morris, they have delivered a museum which I am sure will quickly become a highlight of the Scottish tourist trail.
"As we face the dawn of a new era in firefighting, it is more important than ever that we remember these firefighters and honour the courage and dedication they have shown - qualities displayed by firefighters today which will continue to be exemplified by the firefighters of tomorrow."