Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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443. To ask the Minister for Health if he will address a matter (details supplied) regarding an air ambulance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49372/18]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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The Deputy will be aware that the Programme for a Partnership Government commits to exploring the feasibility of the expansion of air ambulance services, including the possibility of a second base. In that context, I met with the Irish Community Rapid Response (ICRR) last year to discuss their proposal to establish a charitably funded Helicopter Emergency Medical Service in the South. At that meeting it was agreed that the ICRR would work with the National Ambulance Service (NAS) with a view to reverting to me with an agreed proposal.

I am advised that the ICRR and the NAS are currently finalising the details of a proposed service arrangement which will be submitted to me for decision. The Deputy will appreciate that I will need to be fully satisfied that the necessary clinical and corporate governance arrangements are such that the new service will be safe, robust and sustainable. I expect that the proposal will be submitted to me without undue delay.