I think the Minister said in his reply that it is not proposed to implement the recommendations in paragraph 9.170 of the tribunal of inquiry. If not, would the Minister state what responsibility he has in regard to the fire fighting and fire prevention services?

What question is the Deputy dealing with?

Question No. 16.

I have already indicated that it is unwise for central Government to interfere with the operations of local authorities and particularly the fire authorities. I have the greatest confidence in our fire services. We have excellent fire chiefs and excellent personnel. If, because something happens or does not happen, we in central Government are to rush in, interfere and point the finger at them, that would be bad for morale and it would disrupt a service which is giving a first-class account of itself.

I accept that we have excellent fire officers. Who is advising the Minister on fire matters? Has he excellent advice available to him?

Yes, I have.

In what form? Who advises him?

The Fire Services Council are excellent. As the Deputy is aware, they are a wide-ranging body and they advise me on any matter I want to be advised on.

Has the Minister any fire expertise within his own Department?

Yes.

Who advises him there?

There are three fire advisers in the Department.