Major boost for Tipperary as €3m secured for new fire station
Over €3million has been allocated towards the development of a new, state-of-the-art fire station headquarters in Tipperary.
Local Government Minister James Browne has confirmed that €3million will be allocated for Borrisokane Fire Station so they can upgrade their facilities for the future.
Tipperary County Council has already purchased a site next to the current fire station, with construction able to get underway now that the funding has been allocated from central Government.
Fianna Fáil TD Ryan O’Meara said that the investment in frontline services will enhance emergency services in the town.
"I am delighted that €3million has been approved by Government for a brand-new fire station headquarters in Borrisokane.
"This is a project I have been following and working on for some time. Tipperary County Council acquired the site adjacent to the current station in Borrisokane for works and have been awaiting funding. This funding is now in place,” Deputy O’Meara said.
Also welcoming the allocation is Deputy O’Meara’s brother, and Fianna Fáil councillor JP O’Meara.
“This is great news for everybody in the Borrisokane area, but especially for all the hard‑working staff in the station. I welcome this news that Minister James Browne has signed off on this project,” Cllr O’Meara said.
The funding will allow Tipperary County Council to make a start on the redevelopment of the fire station, which will ensure an enhanced emergency response in the area.
It is understood that the current fire station has been in place since the 1960s, and has minimal facilities for training of its officers. The new station will allow for more training space for its members.
Elsewhere in north Tipperary, €2million has been allocated for upgrade works to Roscrea fire station.
Deputy O’Meara said that the investment comes after a visit to Roscrea by Minister Browne.
"In late February, I welcomed Minister Browne to Roscrea, and he visited a number of housing developments. I am very grateful to the Minister for all of his work and for backing Roscrea,” the Fianna Fáil TD said.
The funding allocations for Tipperary come as part of the €328.5million Fire Services Capital Programme that Minister James Browne has announced.
Under this, Nenagh will receive upgraded compartment fire behaviour training facilities, according to the local TD.
Deputy O’Meara also noted his support for the council’s campaign to recruit new firefighters for Newport.
“I support the campaign that Tipperary County Council is currently running to recruit new firefighters for Newport Fire Station. It is a priority for me, as a local representative that Newport retains its fire station.”