Clare County Council has acquired a new emergency tender appliance for Ennis Fire Station, strengthening the Clare County Fire and Rescue Service fleet.
The new €350,000 appliance will be used to respond to major incidents across the county.
The vehicle has been designed and built to support fire and rescue service member as they respond to road traffic collisions, road hazards, river rescues and hazardous materials incidents,
It will be based permanently at Ennis Fire Station, where it joins two Class B fire appliances, a Bronto aerial rescue vehicle, a water tanker and a four-wheel-drive van.
The vehicle, which cost a total of €349,935, was fully funded by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage under its Fire Appliance Procurement Programme.
Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council Councillor Paul Murphy said, “This new vehicle is a significant boost for Ennis Fire Station and for communities across Clare. Our firefighters carry out vital work every day, often in difficult and dangerous conditions. Providing them with modern, reliable equipment is essential for the safety of the public and our fire service personnel.”
Clare County Council Director of Services Dr Carmel Kirby said, “The arrival of this appliance reflects our continued investment in a strong, well-resourced Clare County Fire and Rescue Service. It will enhance the ability of our crews to respond quickly and safely to emergencies, using the most up-to-date technology available. As Ennis continues to grow, so too must the capacity of its fire service, and this addition is an important step in meeting that need.”
Clare County Chief Fire Officer Adrian Kelly said, “The arrival of this appliance is a significant boost to our operational capacity, and I would like to acknowledge all who played a part in its delivery. Built by High Precision Motor Products on a Scania chassis from Westward Scania, it brings the latest firefighting technology to our frontline crews. Our priority is always the protection of lives and property, and this investment strengthens that mission.”
Meanwhile, Mr. Kelly has paid tribute to Firefighter James Lucey of Kilkee Fire Brigade who passed away on February 26th.
“As we welcome this addition to the fleet, we also remember our colleague James Lucey, whose recent passing has been felt deeply across the service and the wider community. His dedication and quiet professionalism embodied the very best of our fire service, and his contribution will not be forgotten,” added Mr. Kelly.