Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

In response to Deputy Browne, first of all the degree programme is vital. It has been the most transformative thing we did in terms of professionalising the EMT profession, and I was involved in it. The professionalisation of the sector is the most effective thing we have done in terms of pre-emergency care. As I said, I have heard what people have said in terms of individual examples which are constantly quoted. I cannot delve into every individual case which may potentially point up a systemic issue that the ambulance service needs to consider. We will engage with the ambulance service.

On Deputy Murphy's point, it was my understanding that measures had been taken and the vast majority of social protection measures were introduced on budget night. I will pursue the latter point he raised.

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