Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)

Unfortunately, progress has been slow. I was a little taken aback when the HSE stated my Department and I were engaged in discussions with it. I have discussed the matter with a senior executive of the HSE and a local transport group in an effort to identify how best we can bring together, in a co-ordinated fashion, the critical mass of the rural transport initiative and the requirement to bring people to hospital. If this can be done, we will get better value for money.

I have tried to pursue the issue with the HSE which has an allocation to provide this type of ambulance service. We could provide a much more extensive service if this was linked to a joint bidding system through the rural transport initiative. We are involved in a cohesive process, including Leader and partnership companies. This is about providing cohesive, comprehensive services; it is not about structures, but about people. We must examine their needs, including for patient transport which is vital.

I concur with the Deputy's remarks on this issue. I was appalled to learn that people from Inishturk and Clare Island who do not have cars on the mainland were being told once they arrived on the mainland that they had to walk or take a taxi to hospital. While I am working on the issue, progress has been slow. I appreciate the Deputy's support for my efforts. I would be interested to hear his view on whether this is the best way to approach the matter.

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