Vol. 236 No. 3
asked the Minister for Defence what medical equipment is carried in helicopters; whether resuscitation equipment is provided; and what steps will be taken to provide all helicopters with adequate equipment to save the lives of ill and injured persons in transit.
25.
asked the Minister for Defence if his attention has been drawn to the fact that Air Corps helicopters which are often used in accident cases are not equipped with resuscitation equipment; and if he will take steps to have the necessary equipment installed.
With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 24 and 25 together.
First aid equipment is carried at all times. Special stretchers are carried for particular ambulance missions. Resuscitation equipment and other specialised medical equipment are provided by the medical team, comprising doctor and nurse, who accompany all patients on helicopter ambulance missions. Oxygen, saline drips and surgical suction pumps are carried as required.
The selection and procurement of other types of medical equipment is kept under review. This involves thorough medical and aerodynamical investigation as some readily available items are not suitable for use in flight. Any suggestion made by the medical personnel for additional equipment will be considered.
