Disgraceful plans for Fire Service cuts will put lives at risk

3.48.12pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 28th Mar 2007

Strangford Alliance MLA Kieran McCarthy

Strangford Alliance MLA Kieran McCarthy has hit out at proposals to close or remove second fire engines from 21 stations across Northern Ireland. The plans, which could be implemented by February 2008, are contained in the Fire Service's Integrated Risk Management Plan.

Kieran McCarthy MLA said: "The safety of local people is of paramount importance. When it comes to saving lives, cutting corners to cut costs will simply not be tolerated.

"Last December, the Transitional Assembly voted unanimously against proposed cuts. All parties must now renew their pledge to scrap these plans when devolution returns. These proposals hammer home the need for a fully-functioning Assembly which will make the right decisions for everyone in Northern Ireland.

"Station closures are totally unacceptable, as are the removal of second appliances, which will mean that response times increase and lives are put at risk."

ENDS