Alarm bells are ringing over fire service lack of funding in budget

Alliance Health spokesperson Kieran McCarthy MLA has blasted the Finance Minister Peter Robinson over the budget and the impact it could have on our fire service. His comments come after Chair of the Fire and Rescue Service Board Bill Gillespie said that about £15 million is needed annually, but only £4 million will be provided in the budget.

The Opposition MLA said: “It is extremely worrying that the fires service needs £15 million annually to function but is only to receive £4 million in the new budget.

“Alarm bells should be ringing in the Department of Finance. This potential underfunding could be disastrous.

“It is staggering that 26 stations are not fit for purpose. This situation can only be addressed with more funding. Unfortunately this cash does not seem to be forthcoming.

“Our firefighters put their lives at risk on a daily basis to protect the local population. They very least they deserve is the equipment and support they need to help them do best possible job.”

ENDS