Will They Cut Fire Services in Shepway?

On Wednesday 20th February, the Kent Fire Authority is meeting to decide whether to implement cuts to the Fire Service in Folkestone. The proposed cuts will mean the loss of 24 firefighters, a full time fire engine, and an extendable turntable ladder from Folkestone and the surrounding area.

Shepway Liberal Democrats have been a key part of the campaign against the cuts. Lynne Beaumont, Leader of the Lib Dems on Shepway District Council has appealed to all members of the Fire Authority:

"Central Government have told Kent Fire Authority that they have to save £6,000,000 over the next 3 years. Tomorrow, 25 Kent County Councillors will make a decision which will affect the safety of every resident in Shepway.

"The Fire Authority is stating the risk to be acceptable. We are saying that to increase the death rate of the residents of Shepway is NOT acceptable.

"Kent County Councillors are elected by local people to represent local people's views.

Very rarely are County Councillors asked to make a decision which will put people's lives at risk. This is one of those times.

"I urge every elected member of the Fire Authority to consider the safety of the residents of Shepway before they make their decision. They have to be prepared to be accountable for that decision when lives are lost."