KCC asked if fire services can soak stockpiles before they are lit to clamp down on illegal bonfires

Kildare County Council have said that the fire services within the county are unable to pre-soak potential bonfires as it is not within their remit.

The issue was raised by Cllr Sorcha O'Neill at a recent meeting of the Naas Municipal District, with the local representative asking that the local fire services presoak any bonfires they become aware of in advance of Halloween so they are unable to be set alight in order to clamp down on illegal bonfires.

The council responded by saying that it was not possible as it is not part of their duties.

"Accumulations of material and waste for bonfires and the control of same is not a matter for the Fire Services. Where bonfires are lit and likely to result in fire damage or are deemed dangerous to public safety, the Fire Services can intervene," read the council's response.