I propose to take Questions Nos. 408 to 410, inclusive, together.
The National Ambulance Service (NAS) control centre reconfiguration project is reducing the number of control centres to one national system over two sites, while making a significant investment in new voice, data and mapping technologies. This will allow the NAS to deploy emergency resources more effectively and efficiently, on a regional and national basis rather than within small geographic areas.
The reconfiguration of existing ambulance control centres is consistent with international best practice and endorsed by HIQA as the most appropriate approach to improve the quality of services to patients. The project is also a key element of Future Health: A Strategic Framework for Health Reform in Ireland 2012-2015.
The National Operations Centre will be located in Tallaght and Ballyshannon, for operational redundancy. Full commissioning, with the consolidation of all NAS control centres, should be completed by the end of 2014 and will include the National Aeromedical Coordination Centre, currently in Tullamore.
In relation to the specific queries raised, as these are service matters I have asked the HSE to respond directly to the Deputy.
