asked the Minister for Local Government whether he is aware that local authorities are finding the upkeep of fire brigades increasingly difficult; and, if so, whether he will seek powers to compel insurance companies to bear some portion of the cost in view of the income they derive from insurances on council properties, if necessary by the introduction of proposals for legislation.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Local Authority Fire Brigades.
I am not aware that local authorities are experiencing difficulty in regard to the maintenance of the fire-fighting service. I do not consider that legislation on the lines suggested by the Deputy would be practicable.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that formerly insurance companies operated their own fire brigades, thereby proving the value of an efficient service?
The difficulty about the matter is that an insured person would be paying for an uninsured person. The rates would go up and the non-insured person would have the same service as the insured person. It is a very difficult proposition.
Why should not the Minister keep the rates down as he has done in the case of car insurance?
It depends on the number of fires.