asked the Minister for Health whether the recently introduced Dublin emergency ambulance service has been discontinued; and, if so, why.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dublin Emergency Ambulance Service.
65.
I assume that the Deputy is referring to a recent pilot scheme aimed at concentrating the emergency and accident services in the Dublin hospitals during the night time period.
Following discussions which my Department had with representatives of the Irish Medical Association and later with a number of Dublin hospitals, it was agreed that this experimental scheme should operate for a four-week period only. It was also agreed that the results of the experiment would then be considered with a view to determining suitable permanent arrangements. The pilot scheme ended on 21st March and statistics relating to it are now being gathered and collated. My Department will, as soon as possible, discuss the results with the Irish Medical Association and the Dublin hospitals.
I understand that there is to be a further pilot scheme for another month. Has the Minister any information on that?
I do not think there is any intention of another one. We will see how the first goes on.
Does this include Dún Laoghaire?
The last one?
Yes.
I think it would.