Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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Question 555: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when funding will be provided for a new fire station at Lismore County Waterford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17224/08]

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
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The provision of a fire service in its functional area, including the establishment and maintenance of a fire brigade, the assessment of fire cover needs and the provision of premises is a statutory function of individual fire authorities under section 10 of the Fire Services Act 1981. My Department's role is one of supporting and assisting local authorities in delivering fire services through the provision of funding under the fire service capital programme and through setting of general policy.

The capital programme forms part of my Department's strategy to support the fire authorities in the development and maintenance of a quality fire-fighting and rescue service. It provides funding for the construction/upgrading of fire stations, the procurement of fire appliances and specialised equipment.

There have been significant improvements affecting all areas of the fire service in recent years — increased investment in infrastructure and equipment, more staff, better training, and the provision of improved communications infrastructure. With a further investment of €26 million this year, details of which will shortly be finalised, the fire service is well positioned to meet the increasing demands placed on it in the 21st century.

A number of priority projects have been advanced in County Waterford in recent times. These include replacement stations and extensions or upgrading works at stations in Ardmore, Cappoquin, Dungarvan, Dunmore East and Tramore. The provision of Exchequer funding to support further investment in the Co. Waterford fire service will have regard to the fire authority's priorities, the spread of existing facilities, and the competing demands from other fire authorities for available funding.