Alan Kelly (Tipperary North, Labour)

I thank the Deputies for their comments. Although they did not mention them, I take it that they accept the many other recommendations made in the report with regard to training and upgrading of volunteers, which are necessary. I take it they also accept the recommendations regarding risk reviews and the need for a programme of work in the area of pollution control and measures to be taken where there is potential for serious incidents.

Significant investment has been made in the Malin Head station and the OPW has signed contractual commitments to the value of €63,000 for renovation of the building. This will see the centre rewired, new flooring installed and a general clean-up. The Department has also spent €40,000 on communications architecture and associated works in recent times. All of this work will be completed in August.

I wish to make it clear that none of the recommendations, in particular the one raised by the Deputies, has been either accepted or rejected by the Department. Sometimes people think decisions are already made, but there is no predefined decision in this regard. Decisions will be made on the recommendations over the next number of months, with a view to completion by October.

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