Dinny McGinley
Question:340 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if a grant has been approved toward the cost of the new fire tender for Bundoran, County Donegal. [22263/00]
Written Answers. - Fire Service.
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.
In October 1999 I approved a proposal from Donegal County Council to purchase a new fire appliance at a cost of over £165,500. I understand from the council that this appliance was delivered last week and that they are assigning it to Letterkenny fire station. 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.