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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 26 Feb 2003

Vol. 562 No. 2

Written Answers - Fire Service.

John Deasy

Question:

237 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if he is carrying out a review of the fire services; his plans to improve the quality of the fire service in the west Waterford area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5907/03]

The final report of the consultants engaged to assist the Strategic Review of Fire Safety and Fire Services in Ireland was published on 11 March 2002. A copy of the report is available in the Oireachtas Library. This strategic review, which contains a range of the recommendations for improving the quality of the fire services, is now being progressed.

The provision of fire cover in the west Waterford area is the statutory duty of the local fire authority, Waterford County Council. It would be a matter for the council, in the first instance, to determine the fire fighting requirements, including the location and operation of fire stations, needed to enable it to meet its statutory responsibilities.

Formal proposals from Waterford County Council for two new replacement fire stations in west Waterford at Ardmore and Tallow are before my Department at present. These will be considered for advancement in the context of the fire services capital programme having regard to the council's priorities and the competing demands of the other fire authorities. In addition, in September 2002, I approved the council's proposal to carry out improvement works to Cappoquin Fire Station at an estimated cost of €95,000.

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