asked the Minister for the Environment the up-to-date position regarding the new fire station at Belgard Road, Clondalkin, County Dublin; and when it will come into operation.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Dublin Fire Station.
5.
I understand from Dublin Corporation that work on the construction of the station is well advanced and it is expected that it will be completed and in operation early in 1982.
Can the Minister assure the House that no difficulties will be put in the way of the corporation in employing adequate staff to man this fire station, taking into account the directive issued by the Minister for Finance on taking on staff in local authorities?
I can assure Deputy Taylor that there will be no delay. The corporation have indicated to my Department that they started recruitment on 1 October.
The Minister, Deputy Peter Barry, informed the House yesterday that local authorities would be in a position to take on staff only if they did not exceed existing staff numbers. This means that the employment of staff for this fire station will involve a reduction in staff available for other services. Will the Minister confirm that there will not be a necessity to reduce staff numbers in other areas?
I do not know whether Deputy Burke is concerned about the Tallaght fire station or with making a political point.
I am interested in the truth.
The question relates to the fire station at Tallaght which will be in operation in 1982. Staff recruitment is under way.
The Minister informed the House yesterday that there could be no additional staff employed and staff will have to be provided from among the existing number. This will necessitate a reduction in other services. Will the Minister confirm that?
I am confirming that recruitment started on 1 October, that the station will be adequately manned and in operation early in the new year.
Arising from the Minister of State's reply——
The Deputy has asked the same supplementary twice.
It is my intention to raise this matter on the Adjournment.
I will communicate with the Deputy.