Emergency Services Personnel

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 May 2013

Tuesday, 7 May 2013

Questions (408)

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

408. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health if he will outline the details of an incident at Dunsany, County Meath, that led to a member of an Garda Siochána transporting a patient from the scene of a car crash to hospital by ambulance; if he will detail the pre-emergency care staffing levels in the Health Service Executive Dublin North East region for the years 2010, 2011, 2012 and to date in 2013; if he will detail the rostering arrangements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21505/13]

Written answers

Minister for Health

Members of An Garda Síochána are authorised to drive any vehicle deemed necessary in the performance of their duties. On rare occasions, two or more paramedics or advanced paramedics may be required to treat a patient in an emergency ambulance. In these circumstances, members of the emergency services on scene, including gardai, where capable of doing so are authorised by the HSE to drive National Ambulance Service vehicles. Such collaborative arrangements occur where all agencies at the scene of an incident are focussed on a common goal and mission - to preserve life. In relation to the query on staffing levels and rostering arrangements, I have asked the HSE to reply directly to the Deputy.