Last-minute talks avert strike by Ennis fire-fighters

A threatened strike by fire-fighters in Ennis has been averted following last-minute talks last night.

The stoppage was due to begin at midnight and the Army had been placed on standby to provide emergency coverage.

However, SIPTU and Clare County Council managed to hammer out a deal on staffing levels at the Co Clare station.

Both sides also agreed to engage the services of the Labour Relations Commission to examine industrial relations practices, policies and procedures within the fire service in Ennis.

Ennis station is the largest of seven in Co Clare, covering a catchment area of 60,000 people.