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, the provision of a premises and the making of such other provisions as it considers necessary or desirable, is a statutory function of individual fire authorities under the provisions of the Fire Services Act 1981.
My Department supports fire authorities through the setting of general policy and guidance, and the provision of capital funding, including the recoupment (within the overall funding available) of costs incurred by fire authorities in relation to the approved purchase of fire appliances and equipment.
I understand from Roscommon County Council that the estimated cost of providing fire services in County Roscommon for 2011 is €2,916,738.
During a recent industrial relations dispute, in accordance with established procedures, a request was made via my Department for the assistance of the Defence Forces to ensure the continued provision of an emergency service to communities in Roscommon. In the event, the army was not mobilised to respond to any incidents in the county during the dispute. I understand that a Labour Court ruling, following a hearing on 2 December 2011, has provided a basis for resolving the dispute.
The costs associated with the request for contingent fire cover will be prepared by my colleague, the Minister for Defence, but I understand they are not available at present.