Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

My predecessor in office, Deputy Bertie Ahern, met twice with the families of the two fire fighters who died last September responding to a factory fire in Bray, County Wicklow. He took the opportunity to convey the sympathy and condolences of the Government to both families on their loss. During the meetings, discussion focused on the concerns expressed by the families for the safety of the people of Bray and improvements to the fire services in the area, together with their call for an independent investigation into the tragedy. During the meetings he assured the families that the Government will address all the issues arising from the findings of current investigations. The families were also assured of the Government's commitment to support the development of modern, safe fire services for the community of Bray and nationwide.

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