Martin Conway (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

On 30 June there were two fatalities in County Clare. I understand that in one case the ambulance service had to request the assistance of the fire service. I also understand that as a result of staff shortages in Ennis, paramedics had to be drafted in from other parts of the county which left them compromised in the provision of an ambulance service. In his wisdom, the Minister for Health has announced the establishment of a new national ambulance service. However, given the serious incidents on Monday, 30 June in County Clare, it is appropriate that he request a report on what happened on that day and the level of ambulance cover provided. He should also seek explanations from the National Ambulance Service management for what happened. The position is extremely serious and such a report is required as a matter of urgency. Following on from it, I suggest there be a review of ambulance services in County Clare. I, therefore, ask the Leader to request the Minister to initiate a report and review the ambulance service in County Clare as a matter of urgency.