I propose to take Questions Nos. 237 and 238 together.
The provision of ambulance services in County Wexford is a matter in the first instance for the South-Eastern Health Board. My Department is advised that emergency medical technicians in the South-Eastern Health Board withdrew from on-call and related stand-by duties with effect from 10 May 2003. Emergency medical technicians from ambulance bases in Gorey, New Ross and Enniscorthy are taking part in the industrial action.
My Department, through the Department of Defence, requested the assistance of the Army to provide on-call cover for the duration of the dispute. On foot of this request the Army medical corps agreed to provide on-call cover for the board and is operating two ambulances in the region, one based in New Ross and one based in Gorey. These locations were identified by the board to maximise the assistance being provided by the Army medical corps. I am advised that the board has engaged the services of the Labour Relations Commission and that, under its auspices, talks are under way with SIPTU in an effort to resolve the dispute. I understand these talks are continuing.