Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I agree with the Deputy that we have a responsibility to all of the people of this country regardless of where they live. In fact, in many ways we have a particular responsibility to people who live in rural and regional communities in terms of putting services in place. That is why we have increased the budget for the NAS year on year. We increased it by more than €10 million this year, including an amount of €2.8 million that will enable us to invest in more ambulances and paramedics. The Deputy will agree on the importance of the NAS following an evidence base and targeting resources in the areas most in need. I hear clearly the case that he and all Oireachtas Members from Roscommon make about the need for more resources for its ambulance service. I will pass those comments directly on to the NAS and ask it to contact the Deputy directly on this matter.

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