Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I said to the Deputy in Cashel that I wanted to speak to him about the ambulance service but we never got to it. I checked out the inquiry he made and I have been informed there is no intention to reduce service levels with regard to paramedics or advance paramedics in the area the Deputy asked about. We will write to the Deputy to confirm that.

On the issue of ShannonDoc, it would be useful and I would be happy to meet Oireachtas Members from the affected counties. I should make it clear, as the HSE has made the fact clear, that this did not arise from a funding issue. The Deputy did not suggest that. This arose from a decision taken by the co-operative and I understand the rationale for taking that decision. I am very eager to try to see the position improved, and if there is a way the HSE or the Department of Health can assist in improving that in the short term, let us do it. I know there is a meeting either this Friday or next Friday about it so I will arrange to meet Oireachtas Members from all parties on it. The Deputy referred to a governance issue regarding a medical college, but I have no knowledge of it.