Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

In recent years there have been a number of occasions when, unfortunately, the emergency services were called upon to respond. The emergency plan was effective on those occasions, including the one mentioned by the Deputy, as was ambulance cover. Dublin fire brigade staff are qualified medical technicians. In addition to ambulance crews, every fire engine crew member can administer medical assistance to casualties. They are a sophisticated, well organised and disciplined group. I do not know how many requests come in for the service, but I have looked at the number of personnel involved, the extent of the resources and how the service has developed over the years, and it is impressive. Most of the stations have been rebuilt and modernised over the years.

On the main point raised by the Deputy, the evidence produced by the families and the committee has been examined extensively. In November 2004 it was considered that there was nothing to warrant further investigation within the ambit of that evidence. The further evidence given by the families is currently being examined. The Minister has made it clear that he is prepared to continue contact with the committee and the Garda on the forensic science. The question of meeting me has never been a problem. I met many members, but not the organised committee, for a different reason. I am always happy to meet groups and will be pleased to do so if it helps the situation. It is not the case that a report has not been brought forward and examined. The new evidence is currently being examined and if anything new comes up, the Government is prepared to look at it.

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