Clare Daly (Dublin North, Socialist Party) | Oireachtas source

In the opening remarks Mr. Bell stated that his members were concerned with the effect on morale of adverse public comment.

The problem does not really relate to adverse public comment, rather it arises on foot of the large number of fatalities which have occurred and which have perhaps resulted in people not only dealing with the tragedy but also inquiring as to what might have been the outcome if the ambulance service was better structured or financed. What I am saying in this regard is in no way meant to be a reflection on those who work at the coalface and for whom everybody has the height of respect.

I have three brief questions. I do not believe there should be a debate on response times. Are the response times only a guideline or are they meant to be reflective of international best practice? I am a new member of the committee and remain confused about that matter. It seems that the times reflect international best practice. If that is the case, that should be our starting point and there should be no further debate. What we should be concentrating on is how we can achieve these times. It is clear that we are a long way from achieving them. I do not have a difficulty with HIQA stating these are the response times. If they are reflective of best practice, we should try to achieve them. I would like some clarity to be provided on the matter.

We have been informed that if somebody is sick and cover is not available, an ambulance will not be sent. It appears, therefore, that the problem is not one of vehicles but rather that there are not sufficient staff available. Ambulances are being taken out of circulation and we are relying on other rapid response vehicles as an alternative. That is strange because ambulances are far better equipped for dealing with various situations than the other vehicles to which I refer. Do our guests agree that this is an accurate assessment?

Have studies been conducted of staffing levels? Mr. Bell has stated some recruitment is taking place. How do numbers in the service now compare to those which obtained previously? Is a comparison valid in the light of the changed nature of the job done by paramedics? Any comparison would probably not be inaccurate. When all emergency response workers are factored in, are we still far behind where we should be? Should our targets be higher in the light of the greater responsibilities which obtain?