Frank Feighan (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputies again for raising the issue. I assure the House the Government remains committed to ensuring the NAS delivers an enhanced service in Connemara through the establishment of the new base in Recess. I reiterate that this region is receiving additional support in the interim through the temporary crewing deployment arrangements I outlined. The strategic development of the NAS is a multiannual reform programme that will require continued investment in response to identified capacity deficits and changing population need.

I am aware the Deputies have been engaging with proposals for an ambulance base in Connemara. It is good to confirm that the project for the new ambulance base is in the HSE's capital plan for 2022. Preparation is in train for works at the new facility. This is at an advanced stage. In the interim, NAS crews are being deployed from Connemara. I fully appreciate the need to make progress on the new facility. The project is being progressed. The HSE estates unit is engaging with the local authority regarding road access for the proposed base. It is anticipated that a planning application will be submitted in the third quarter of 2022. Deputy Ó Cuív made a valid point. This is the third quarter of the year and we are coming into the summer holidays. I am very aware of the work of the HSE estates unit in the west and north west. I will get onto the Department tomorrow to find out whether it has made an application. If an application is not made by the HSE estates unit through the local authority, this project could be delayed. There is urgency and I hear what the Deputies are saying. I thank them for raising this important issue.

See this speech in context