There is a possibility that 75% of fire stations in the country would be closed at any one time.
That's according to one Cork Fire Station Officer.
SIPTU will consult with retained firefighters nationwide about escalating the industrial dispute.
The union claims a lack of political will to engage meaningfully means the action will have to be escalated.
Ireland's 2,000 retained firefighters will meet with union reps during the first half of next week.
At present, fire crews are only responding to life-threatening incidents with half the country's stations closed at all times.
Speaking to RedFM News, Station Officer at Midleton Fire Station, Mark Sinclair says escalation seems likely.
"I could imagine 75% - that could be the next step. I don't know, but that's what I've been hearing in the background - that 75% of stations would be closed."
