Local Sinn Féin TD Imelda Munster has said the government is sleeping walking and not paying heed to what is actually happening in the retained firefighters ranks, and their inaction has forced them into taking strike action.
Speaking in the Dáil Deputy Munster said “retained firefighters are on the picket line in Drogheda and they have been forced to do so and left with no other option because of Government inaction.
“At present only six out of ten retained firefighter positions in Drogheda are filled, and that is a problem across County Louth which has been ongoing for seven years.
“They work six 24-hour shifts in a row, with only two days off. They are on call for 144 hours per week and have a five-minute turnaround time to get to the station, which most find impossible, and that affects their pay too.
“The Taoiseach is fully aware that discussions broke down in May and clearly the offers are not realistic or fair. If he values and respects their work, the Taoiseach should ensure, given how long this has been going on, that a realistic offer of proper pay and conditions is made to them.
Continuing Deputy Munster said “Retained fire fighters have been pushed to the very brink by government. They feel they have been left with no choice but to engage in strike action this week.
“They do their jobs under incredibly difficult circumstances, including acting as first responders at scenes that most of us could never even imagine.
“They bravely save lives while putting their own on the line, as they work to protect communities in [areas]. Yet, poor conditions and unsafe staffing levels have contributed to a recruitment and retention crisis. Government has neglected their calls for reform and have failed to act.
“They government parties are sleeping walking, and they’re the cause of Retained Firefighters striking.
“A realistic offer of proper pay and conditions should be made now, before strike action escalates further, or any possible consequences will be on the governments head.
