Crews from half of the country's retained fire stations are on strike due to working conditions.

They say the current base salary of around 8 thousand 500 euro a year, makes it impossible keep staff.

Outside of annual leave, crew members must stay within 2 and a half miles of the station at all times.

Minster for Housing and Local Government Darragh O'Brien, who is responsible for the service, will reportedly make "a positive statement" on the matter in the Dáil this afternoon.

Tánaiste Micheál Martin says he doesn't believe strike action is necessary...