Anne Rabbitte (Galway East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I too acknowledge the wonderful work done by community air ambulance services, of which there is no doubt. I fully understand the challenges they have faced trying to fundraise over recent times. That is why the commission last week approved the establishment of the scheme. In line with a direction of the Department of Health, the NAS will establish and administer the scheme. I hope I have outlined the commitment of the Government and its agencies, including the HSE and the National Ambulance Service, to ensuring the continued provision of air ambulance services to respond to trauma and clinical emergencies in the south west. The effort made by all parties to ensure this service has been able to continue in the face of the charity’s financial difficulties is to be commended.

The temporary framework scheme, as approved by the commission, while time-limited, is still very much designed to ensure the vital services secured under the HSE's ongoing procurement process will be completed and that a successful tenderer will be identified. I again emphasise the Government’s commitment to supporting the development of pre-hospital emergency care services, including aeromedical services. This can be seen in the unprecedented levels of funding allocated, which has increased by 17% since 2016. Through continuous strategic reform, the NAS is continuing its evolution from being an emergency medical service to an agile and responsive medical service that will improve care and outcomes for patients, as the Deputy outlined.

I will convey everything he raised to the Minister of Health.

See this speech in context