Written answers

Tuesday, 13 July 2021

Photo of Denis NaughtenDenis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent)
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115. To ask the Minister for Health his plans for the expansion of the air ambulance service based at Custume Barracks, Athlone; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27789/21]

Photo of Stephen DonnellyStephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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The Emergency Aeromedical Service (EAS), based at Custume Barracks, is a nationwide Helicopter Emergency Medical Service provided by the Irish Air Corps in conjunction with the National Ambulance Service (NAS) during daylight hours. The service is staffed by an Air Corps flight crew, an Emergency Medical Technician and a NAS Advanced Paramedic. Reserve support is provided by the Irish Coast Guard.  

A review into the operation of the EAS is currently ongoing, in line with the 2015 Government Decision, which established the EAS service on a permanent basis and provided that whilst the current joint service model will continue it will be subject to ongoing review in the context of ensuring a sustainable long term service arrangement.  The review is being led by the Department of Defence and includes representation from my Department and from the NAS.  Its primary objectives are to ensure that the EAS remains a sustainable and resilient service into the future, continues to provide a high quality of service to the public and is well positioned to respond to future demands as these arise. 

The operation of the EAS going forward will be informed by the review's findings and recommendations. 

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