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

Deputy Kyne understands well that I have inherited many legacy issues relating to rural areas, one of which happens to be south Connemara fire station. It is remarkable that I have to resolve many of the issues at a time when we have a difficult financial position, when others, who had plenty of money, could not do so. In the first instance, Galway County Council should engage with the Department on the basis that it has new information to offer or new resources to put to the case of providing the service. However, the case has to be justified as well.

Deputy Kyne referred to the fact that Údarás na Gaeltachta is keen to get involved and assist Galway County Council in providing a fire safety and fire service facility for south Connemara. That is new information. I advise Deputy Kyne to get a comprehensive plan in place among all the State agencies and bodies that have an interest in providing a fire service in south Connemara. They should put it on paper, get agreement from the local authority which, in the first instance, must make an application to the Department. Of course, given the reserve function of local authority members they must approve it first. Then, I will consider the application in the context of the 2014-15 financial programme.

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