Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)

Deputy O'Keeffe is correct on that matter. The provision for part-time firefighters was introduced during my time as a Minister of State in the Department of Social Welfare. The flat rate or average was arrived at to ensure that the State could almost have the benefit of a full-time service, but with very little input. It was believed that it was good value from the point of view of the State.

The case which can be made in those circumstances is that a person who depends entirely on the firefighters payment must work locally to be available for fire services. The new directive from the Minister on 4 December overrides that stipulation. The person must now be available to work in other areas and regions. As the Minister is aware, it is not easy to obtain work in other areas or in the local area. The position should be reviewed, because the local authorities and the public have received very good value for money. There was sufficient remuneration from the Department of Social and Family Affairs to encourage those dedicated fire service persons to continue to provide fire services.

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