THERE IS no specific provision in this year’s Town Council budget to cover the cost of maintenance to the Emigrant Flame on the town’s quay-front.

That was the response from Housing and Finance Officer, Mick McCormack, to a question from Cllr. John Dwyer.

While considering the draft Budget 2014 on Tuesday night Cllr. Dwyer asked if such a provision was included in the document.

“There was no specific provision for the flame but it came out of Parks and Open Spaces [funding],” said Mr. McCormack in reply.

“What percentage is it?” asked Cllr. Dwyer.

Town Manager, Eamonn Hore, said the anticipated cost of the flame at “full ceremonial level” is in the region of €12,000 per year. However, operating at a lower level Mr. Hore said the cost of the flame per year should be in the region of €5,000.

“That is exceptional value given the profile it gives to the town,” he said.

“Our people have got the manuals from Bullfinch [the company that designed the burner] but if something serious goes wrong they will be called in as needed,” he added