The 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 fire authorities in delivering fire services through the provision of funding under the fire service capital programme and through setting general policy.
I recently notified Waterford City Council of approval to proceed with final designs for the new City fire station. The matter will be further considered in the Department on receipt of the final designs and other documentation requested.