RECRUITMENT in smaller towns for part-time firefighters is extremely difficult, Chairman of Enniskillen Fire Station said this week.

With the possibility of industrial action nationwide by firefighters in the offing, Mr. Brian Armstrong argued that the pay offered to fire firghters is unattractive to potential recruits and does not offer enough for men and women doing a difficult and valued job.

Turning to the problems of recruitment, particularly in small towns and the need for a better retainer, he added: “Equally important, it will also help to encourage more recruitment because many of our smaller towns are finding it very hard to bring people into the retained duty system.

Enniskillen firefighters were in Erneside Shopping Centre where they got people like Katrina Williamson (pictured) to sign their petition.