Former Clare Retained Firefighter Claims Industrial Dispute "Close To A Solution"

A former retained firefighter and West Clare councillor believes members of the fire service sturggle to get a mortgage. It comes as retained firefighters across the country resume strike action today following an 82% to 18% vote last week to reject the Labour Court's recommendation which would have seen a 25% increase in the pay of retained firefighters. Another aspect of the rejected recommendation was an increase in minimum crewing levels in all stations to 12 firefighters which would allow firefighters time off of up to 20 weeks per annum away from the fire-ground. Lahinch Green Party Councillor Liam Grant says low retainers prevent firefighters from being able to secure a mortgage.