James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I emphasise that the new rostering arrangements have resulted in increased hours of 188 hours each work, which is 9,800 hours a year. There are - as there always have been - problems in the ambulance service. According to my briefing note, the relatively high absenteeism rate rather than a lack of vehicle resources is an issue. Although the absenteeism is being addressed by the National Ambulance Service's management, unforeseen and short-notice absence presents challenges for emergency provisions, which are dealt with through regional resource utilisation, deployment and call prioritisation.

It was recently reported that a garda was driving an ambulance. That might occur for a number of reasons, including a clinical situation in which both attending crew are providing patient care. Gardaí are authorised to drive any vehicle deemed necessary in the performance of their duties. I think we all agree such collaborative arrangements are necessary when all our agencies at the scene of an incident are focused on a common goal and mission - to preserve life. Although no one wishes to hear of situations such as the ones that Deputy Tóibín has described, I assure the House that the new arrangements have increased the number of hours available to give the life saving service. There will always be room for improvement and we shall strive to make that improvement.

I will discuss the key performance indicators with SIQA and I will get back to Deputy Tóibín in due course.

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