The provision of a fire service in its functional area, including the establishment and maintenance of a fire brigade, the assessment of fire cover needs and the provision of premises is a statutory function of individual fire authorities under section 10 of the Fire Services Act 1981. My Department's role is one of supporting and assisting local authorities in delivering fire services through the provision of funding under the fire service capital programme and through setting of general policy. Approval in principle for the replacement of the fire stations in Ballyshannon and Bundoran was conveyed to the Donegal County Council in July 2009. Proposals from the Council are awaited.