By Dan Walsh at Gorey Fire Station
The Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD was in Gorey today (Monday) where he joined Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Cllr Joe Sullivan at the official opening of the newly refurbished Gorey Fire Station.
Minister Browne praised the fire service and said it is so reassuring for all communities to know that people are prepared to put their own lives at risk to save and protect them. “I really want to acknowledge the community aspect of the fire service. Fire services personnel all come from the community, they are a fantastic asset to the community and they protect our community,” stated Minister Browne.
Minister Browne said Gorey has dramatically changed since the first fire brigade commenced in 1934 and he gave details of the upgrade to Gorey Fire Station meeting modern standards at a cost almost €1 million.
He spoke about ‘teamwork’ that brought it all about. He thanked the local politicians, especially Cllrs Pip Breen and Donal Kenny, Paul L’Estrange (Fire Officer since retired), Ray Murphy, who was present, Edward Rossiter, Acting County Fire Officer, Eddie Taaffe and Carolyne Godkin from Wexford County Council.
The Minister acknowledged Station Officer, Eugene Doyle, the retired firefighters present, and congratulated everybody concerned.
Cllr Joe Sullivan said Gorey Fire Brigade has a proud and long standing history of service to the community. “From its beginnings in 1934, operating from a lean-to shed in Market Square, to the move in 1987 to this purpose-built station, the brigade has continually evolved to meet the needs of a growing town.
“This important project was funded in full by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage and I am delighted to welcome Minister Browne and his officials here today and I sincerely thank the Minister and his Department for their invaluable support and assistance throughout the delivery of this project.
“The refurbishment was expertly designed by C.J. Falconer and Associates and constructed by Suirside Construction Ltd,” said Cllr Sullivan, who added; “I warmly welcome to Gorey Gary and Juneanne Falconer, and I thank them for their professionalism, dedication and the high standard of workmanship that has resulted in this excellent facility.”
The attendance included Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin TD, Cllr Donal Kenny, Cathaoirleach Gorey Kilmuckridge Municipal District Council, Cllrs Pip Breen and Craig Doyle, Eddie Taaffe, Chief Executive Wexford County Council, Carolyne Godkin, Director of services, Anita McLoughlin, District Manager and Stephanie Furlong, Staff Officer at Gorey Municipal Offices, Alan O’Neill, Chief Fire Officer, Edward Rossiter, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Eugene Doyle, Gorey Station Officer, crew members, Gardaí and other invited guests.
Ecumenical prayers were delivered by Archdeacon Mark Hayden, Fr Paddy Banville and Iman Hafib Tridak. A minute’s silence was observed to remember deceased members of Gorey Fire Service.
A colourful 8-page booklet that tells us that the upgrade of Gorey Fire Station in 2024 added a first floor and upgraded all facilities.
Gorey Station now houses two water tenders, an emergency tender and two support vehicles.
There are 18 crew members in Gorey Fire Brigade, a Station Officer, two Sub-Officers, two Drivers and 13 Firefighters.
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