Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 13 May 2010
203 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the situation regarding proposals for a new fire station at a location (details supplied) in County Cork; if he will accept proposals to either lease existing buildings which have been modified for this purpose or design, build and lease options; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19846/10]
View answerThe provision of a fire service in its functional area, including the establishment and maintenance of a fire brigade, the assessment of fire cover needs and the provision of premises is a statutory function of individual fire authorities under section 10 of the Fire Services Act 1981. The Department's role is one of supporting and assisting local authorities in delivering fire services through the provision of funding under the fire service capital programme and through setting of general policy.
No proposals have been received by my Department from Cork County Council to lease existing buildings for use as a fire station in Macroom. Further investment in the fire service in Cork County Council will be considered under future capital programmes having regard to the existing facilities, the level of activity, the proximity of other fire stations, the fire authority's priorities and the totality of demands of other fire authorities on the limited funds available under the fire services capital programme.
