The Local Government Minister is defending the level of fire cover in Co Roscommon since Castlerea fire station closed down. It's after a local Fianna Fáil TD called for the station to be reopened. Martin Daly asked Minister James Browne about the plan for Castlerea fire station. The Ballygar man asked if there are any intentions to reopen the station, considering what he said was the clear and urgent need for fire services in Castlerea and the surrounding areas. Minister Browne says it's a matter for Roscommon County Council. He says the station closed in February 2017 and a formal decision was made not to reopen it in 2020.
He says it's important to note the non-availability of any particular fire station doesn't mean fire service response is diminished. He says Roscommon County Council provides fire services from fire stations in Roscommon town, Elphin, Boyle, Ballaghaderreen and Strokestown. He adds significant areas of the county are also served by fire stations in other counties, like Athlone, Ballinasloe, Ballyhaunis, Carrick-on-Shannon and Lanesboro. He said fire cover for Castlerea continues to be delivered in a safe and efficient manner by nearby brigades.
