Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We are in a recession and in a bailout programme and the Deputy should acknowledge the fact that fire services in Dublin and staffing are being protected. We work very closely with local authorities in regard to the overall numbers. People who were on the panel can apply for these posts, as can others. Four years is long enough to have a panel. I encourage the people who were on the panel originally to apply for these posts.

In the context of a moratorium on public service numbers, Dublin City Council is doing exceptionally well to get sanction for further numbers in respect of a very important service, namely, the fire service.

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