New figures released on fire brigade call-outs in Donegal show a drop in the number of turnouts after charges were raised.
Fees for domestic fire call-outs were doubled from €100 to €200 and above in 2011. The number of call-outs subsequently dropped by over 350 incidences by 2012.
These figures were acquired by Donegal County Councillor Jack Murray, who says the council’s plans to increase revenue by increasing costs have backfired.
He said people are now reluctant to report fires for fear of being billed, despite most insurance companies covering charges and a waiver system existing for those on social welfare.
Cllr Murray, Chairperson of Donegal County Council’s Environment & Emergency Services Strategic Policy Committee said; “This response shows clearly that, rather than increasing revenue for Donegal County Council, the money generated reduced after the increase was applied.
“In 2011 it was first decided to double the call out charge from €100 to €200. It was anticipated that this would generate €650,000 for the council. In fact the total income generated was €322,127.65 – a reduction of over €150,000 from the previous year. That is because the number of call outs from the fire service reduced from 1303 to 951, year on year.
“The cost for a call out for a chimney fire is currently €250, while other house fire incidents are €500.
“It seems to me that the increased call out charges are deterring people from calling the fire service. This was a particular problem when the recent gorse fires caused a huge amount of damage around the county.
“There is a belief that many people who initially spotted the fires were hesitant in calling the fire brigade due to a worry about charges. By the time many fires were reported, they had become much more significant and harder to contain.
“It should be noted that in most instances, insurance companies will pay for the call out charge and a waiver system applies for those on social welfare.
“Nonetheless there is significant reduction in the number of fire service call outs. This can cause a worrying risk in fire safety and is also an issue of concern to fire fighters whose income is subsequently reduced.
“The increased charge has now proven not to generate more money for the council so I think it is time that we have a discussion on whether or not is of benefit and whether or not we need to relook at the system.
“Fire safety is absolutely vital and the public should feel confident in calling our fire fighters when the need arises,” Cllr Murray said.
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