Cllr Patrick McGowan described as “unbelievable” a section in the CEO’s report that Irish Water are responsible for fire hydrants in the county, at Monday’s Plenary Meeting of Donegal County Council.
The Killygordan based councillor described a hydrant at the most recent fire in Castlefinn as being sealed shut.
“Half of our fire hydrants are not working and there was sloppy work done by some people.
“There have been manhole covers with nothing underneath them. Some of these fire hydrants have not been inspected for years and years,” he said.
He suggested the fire service be given extra time to go out and check hydrants in every town and village.
“By the look of things Irish Water don’t seem to be reacting to reports sent. We cannot play with peoples’ lives. We need answers at top management level. It needs to be sorted today,” Cllr McGowan said.
Director of Services Garry Martin told the meeting the issue comes across his desk and there are issues with water mains not just hydrants.
“Water is a utility and we are not responsible. If we identify an issue – pressure or hydrant that impacts on the fire service we contact Irish Water. That is where the responsibility lies,” Mr Martin said.
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