Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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391. To ask the Minister for Health his views on a matter regarding an air ambulance (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6450/19]

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) in 2017 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 details of a proposed service arrangement which will be submitted to me for decision. The Deputy will appreciate that before recommending the service arrangement to me for approval, the NAS 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.