Taoiseach agrees to examine need for Monasterevin fire station

TAOISEACH Micheál Martin confirmed that he will look into delivering a fire station for Monasterevin.

Kildare South TD, Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh raised the urgent need for a modern, fit-for-purpose fire station in Monasterevin, warning that delays in progressing the project are now a matter of public safety.

Speaking in the Dáil today, Deputy Ní Raghallaigh highlighted that the current fire station building is “outdated, inadequate, and no longer meets the needs of a growing town.” She noted that the previously proposed site on the Dublin Road has fallen through again, leaving the community waiting while other viable sites in the area remain undeveloped.

Deputy Ní Raghallaigh stressed that the case for a new station is clear, citing the latest NOAC report which shows that Kildare’s retained fire brigades take an average of 7 minutes and 5 seconds to mobilise after being notified of an emergency – well above the national average of 5 minutes and 31 seconds.

“When Monasterevin doesn’t even have a fit-for-purpose station, those delays become even more dangerous,” she told the chamber.

“This is not just a planning issue, it is a matter of public safety.” 

Deputy Ní Raghallaigh called on the Taoiseach to ensure that the purchase of a newly identified site is fast-tracked, that funding is released without delay, and that a new station is delivered within this Government term."

In response, the Taoiseach acknowledged the need in the community and confirmed that he will look into the matter with the Minister and the Council.

Sinn Féin cllr, Noel Connolly, has already identified suitable alternative sites near the town.

Deputy Ní Raghallaigh said she will continue to press the Government until Monasterevin gets the fire station it urgently needs and that firefighters and local families deserve.