Local TD urges Taoiseach to intervene in retained firefighter crisis

Local TD Claire Kerrane is urging the Taoiseach to intervene in the retained fire service crisis as industrial action is underway.

SIPTU says local authorities have failed to address the recruitment and retention crisis in the brigade.

From this morning, firefighters won't be attending training drills or testing their life saving equipment like breathing apparatus.

Retained fire-fighters are paid a base allowance and are on call 24/7 for most of the year, but typically work another full-time job

Sinn Fein TD Claire Kerrane says the Government was made aware last year that the service was on the brink of collapse.