Martin Conway (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I extend sympathy to our good friend, Senator John Kelly, on the loss of his father.

I commend last week's "Prime Time" programme for its analysis of ambulance services. It raised some concerns. I would like to have a debate in this House on the service. Over the weekend it was brought to my attention that there are ongoing deficiencies in the commitment made to the people of Clare about the ambulance services. I understand that two ambulances and a rapid response car should be available at any one time at the ambulance station in Ennis.

Each ambulance is supposed to have two paramedics, with the car supposed to have one advanced paramedic. From what I have been told, on numerous occasions, including at times during St. Patrick's weekend, the advanced paramedic was told to man the ambulance, as such. This meant that when a patient was being brought to the Mid-Western Regional Hospital in Limerick, the advanced paramedic had to travel with the patient because of requirements. The rapid response car was not available to deal with emergencies if they presented.

The Hanly report was debated-----