asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health if the Inter-Departmental Commission set up to consider the recommendations of the Cavan Fire Tribunal has yet reported; and if any steps have been taken by his Department, since the publication of the report, to provide better rescue and fire-fighting services and improved water pressure in country towns.
Ceisteanna. — Questions. Oral Answers. - Cavan Fire Tribunal Report.
The committee have examined the position as regards a general fire survey of institutions and have recommended the setting up of an advisory technical body to prepare standards for the making of such a survey. This is being done. The committee have not yet completed their full investigations, which include an examination of the most suitable type of fire-fighting scheme to be set up in the country, having regard to technical, financial and administrative considerations and the experience acquired since the passing of the Fire Brigades Act, 1940.
Pending the report of this commission, does the Minister intend to take any action in order to provide better fire-fighting equipment in small towns? As he is aware, a disastrous fire occurred last May in the town of Kiltimagh as a result of which six persons lost their lives. The report of the inquiry is that the fire was due to lack of fire-fighting equipment and failure of water supply. I understand—though I have not got the exact facts—that at the commencement of the emergency a special meeting of the Mayo County Council was called to make investigations, or to present certain plans to your Department, Sir.
Not to my Department.
These plans were presented and, so far, you have not taken any action to put them into effect.
The Chair could take no action in the matter.
The Minister, Sir.
That is better.
The specific matter which the Deputy has raised by way of supplementary question would be a matter for a separate question. I suggest the Deputy might put it on the Order Paper.