Proposed cuts 'will endanger firefighters', says union

Firefighters from across the country will hold a demonstration outside the Dáil this afternoon in protest at cuts to crewing levels.

They say the proposals from the Department of the Environment would endanger firefighters and pose a risk to public safety.

SIPTU, which represents some of the firefighters, said the proposals by the Department of the Environment could see reductions of one or two crew members per appliance.

Sector organiser Brendan O'Brien said the Department had failed to provide the relevant risk assessment.

"We have consistently called for the Department to provide us with the relevant risk assessments and information to outline how they can make these reductions in crewing levels without making an impact on safety, which the Department has failed to provide," he said.

"We have evidence in international reports which proves where crewing levels are reduced, the incidence of accidents and injuries to firefighters increases, as well as having a negative effect on the service itself."

* Today's march to the Dáil starts in Parnell Square at 12 noon.