A new €1.6m auditorium and lecture facility for Dublin's fire service has been officially opened.

Local Services Minister Michael Finneran said the facility at the O’Brien Institute, in Marino, will be used for "vital" training and development.

"Modern training facilities such as this are invaluable," he said.

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"I understand that the lecture theatre will constitute a national resource and will be accessible to other brigades and agencies throughout the country if required."

The Minister said ongoing development of Ireland's fire service, and the quality assistance it provides, was a priority for the government.

He added that sustained investment in training will ensure that fire authorities are well equipped to address the full range of risks they encounter.

Renovation works at the former chapel building were backed by the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.

(PR/KMcA)