Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 7 Nov 2000

Vol. 525 No. 2

Written Answers. - Ambulance Service.

Jack Wall

Question:

209 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to claims made by the Association of Ambulance Personnel that lives are being lost as a result of the slow response rate of ambulances in rural areas; if he will give the average response time at night where workers are operating on a call out basis; the steps he is taking to ensure a speedier response; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24556/00]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin):

The provision of ambulance services is in the first instance the responsibility of the relevant health boards. I am currently examining proposals from health boards regarding the continued expansion of 24 hour "on duty" cover in ambulance stations particularly in rural areas which should ensure speedier response times on the part of the ambulance service.

Question No. 210 taken with Question No. 191.