Hi °C | Lo °C SOME fire stations could be closed as part of major reforms of the fire service. A "handful" of the State's 220 stations may be shut or merged to make savings and help reduce costs. The decisions will be taken by city and county councillors who are responsible for approving fire services in their counties.
Up to six may be closed as they are located too close together. The cost of running a station is between €250,000 and €300,000 a year, but that excludes the costs incurred in attending a fire. Among the stations which could be affected are Ballyshannon and Bundoran in Co Donegal, which may be merged. Ballyshannon and Bundoran stations are less than 9km apart, and are both due to be upgraded.
Irish Independent
