Calls In Clare For Urgent Government Intervention To 'Retain' Fire Services

It's claimed urgent Government action is required to preserve a critical element of the emergency services in Clare and elsewhere. Two thousand members of the Retained Firefighter service across the country will begin industrial action today, with up to half of stations in the service set to be closed. SIPTU which represents the workers is warning the action will result in very serious disruption to services. The crew members have a base salary of 8 thousand 500 euro, and must remain within 3 kilometres of their stations where they can be called up on 24 hours a day. Loop Head-based Fianna Fáil Councillor, Cillian Murphy insists the Government must make funding available to ensure the sustainability of the service for future generations.