Comhdháil Oileáin na hÉireann, the federation of islands, has demanded that local authorities in all coastal counties provide better fire-fighting services on the 33 inhabited islands which are under its jurisdiction.
The federation's renewed plea follows a recent fire on Clare Island, Co Mayo, which destroyed part of the island's only hotel.
Dozens of island dwellers, using domestic fire extinguishers supplied to them by Mayo County Council, risked their lives trying to put out the fire.
Majella Ní Chríocháin, manager of Comhdháil Oileáin na hÉireann, says their members have consistently argued the need for upgraded services with county fire officers.
"Inis Mór in Co Galway and Árainn Mhór in Co Donegal are the only inhabited islands with proper fire-fighting equipment and trained personnel, which should beg the question from the respective fire officers - what about the rest of the islands?
"There is currently at national level the Fire Service Change Programme under the aegis of the Department of the Environment being carried out which involves a risk-based assessment to the provision of fire and emergency cover around the country.
"Comhdháil Oileáin na hÉireann are submitting a national policy document on the provision of fire services for islands in order for the Department of the Environment to recognise the geographical issue and to view the islands as separate to mainland services, which cannot reach islands when fires break out.
"The Department of the Environment will hopefully work closely with the 'islands division' of the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, who have all necessary information on the islands, with a view to the islands being designated a distinct category, requiring services which are island-based.
"We hope that this opportunity is not missed by the respective fire chiefs in the different counties dealing with islands, and the county councils to finally adopt an island-based tailored fire service for the islands.
"There has been far too much talk around this issue over the years from the authorities who are charged with the delivery of such services, and no action to address the real concerns of the islanders," she said.