Vol. 575 No. 4
150 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment Heritage and Local Government if full time and part time fire services throughout the country are equipped with modern breathing apparatus and other protection in the event of having to cope with a terrorist attack; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28608/03]
Fire and emergency services are provided primarily by the local authorities acting, as appropriate, in conjunction with the other emergency services locally. Fire authorities are responsible for providing and updating their equipment, including breathing apparatus and other protective equipment, as well as ensuring appropriate training for full time and retained fire services personnel in their areas. My Department supports these services through a range of functions, including sponsoring the legislation underpinning the fire service; capital funding, which has been substantially increased in the period since 1998, for the replacement/refurbishment of fire stations and the purchase of appliances and equipment; the development and updating of the fire and emergency planning framework and guidance; the promotion of training, assisted by the Fire Services Council, and other initiatives.
