Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 3 Oct 2000

Vol. 523 No. 1

Written Answers. - Fire Stations.

Cecilia Keaveney

Question:

683 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the plans, if any, he has to sanction a new fire tender for a station (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19877/00]

Minister for the Environment and Local Government (Mr. Dempsey):

The provision of a fire service, including fire fighting appliances and their distribution among fire stations, is a matter for each local fire authority – in this case Donegal County Council – in accordance with section 10 of the Fire Services Act, 1981. However, my Department assists fire authorities by providing capital grants towards expenditure they incur in the purchase of such appliances etc.

In October 1999, I approved a proposal from Donegal County Council to purchase a new fire appliance at a cost of over £165,500. The council expects to take delivery of this appliance this month. I also conveyed approval to the council in June 2000 to invite tenders for a further new fire appliance at an estimated cost of £170,000. Exchequer grants will be provided in due course towards the cost of these appliances. The council's proposal to purchase a further three new fire appliances is under consideration in my Department having regard to the funding available to the fire services capital programme and the competing demands for this funding.