End in sight for Firefighters strike

The Killarney Advertiser understands that a solution is on the table to end the long-running firefighters strike.

Retained firefighters work part-time and are compensated with a retainment fee each year.

The Labour Court made a number of recommendations - including that the fee be increased by between 24% and 32.7%.

Trade union members found the recommendations unacceptable and, last week, retained firefighters returned to picket lines across the country

Killarney Fire Station was closed every second day this week meaning any emergency had to be dealt with by the nearest operational station.

Trade Union SIPTU said retained firefighters are striking to ensure that the Government's report on the future of the service will be implemented.

As the Killarney Advertiser closed for press on Thursday evening, it was understood that the strike, which has been running since mid-June, could be close to ending.

Late night talks on Wednesday led to another pay and conditions offer, with members set to ballot on that proposal on Thursday.

The result of the ballot will be known on Friday and could spell the end of the long-running dispute.