Louis J. Belton
Ceist:149 Mr. Belton asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if he will sanction the purchase of four vehicles for Long ford County Council fire units. [26133/98]
Written Answers - Fire Services.
Longford County Council's request for grant-aid approval for the purchase of four four wheel drive vehicles was examined in my Department having regard to the level of funding available to the fire services capi tal programme and the competing demands on those funds. In the latter connection, priority is given to financing fire station projects, Class B fire appliances and expansions to meet growing fire cover needs where appropriate.
In the circumstances, the council was informed by letter dated 19 November 1998 the grant-aid could only be provided for the purchase of one four wheel drive vehicle.