Léim ar aghaidh chuig an bpríomhábhar
Gnáthamharc

Ambulance Service.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 March 2004

Tuesday, 30 March 2004

Ceisteanna (257, 258)

Jerry Cowley

Ceist:

370 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Health and Children when he intends to publish the legislation allowing the recognition of paramedic status for the ambulance service, in order that lives can be saved by allowing ambulance EMTs to assume paramedic status in order that they can administer life saving drugs when indicated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9735/04]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

The Deputy will be aware that the Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Council, PHECC, was established in 2000 and that its primary function is to develop appropriate standards in pre-hospital emergency care.

The council has submitted proposals to my Department in relation to the introduction of an emergency medical technician — advanced EMT-A programme. The drafting of the regulatory changes necessary to give effect to this initiative are being advanced by my Department as a priority. I am pleased to advise the Deputy that, consistent with the anticipated resolution of outstanding legal issues associated with the regulatory changes, I recently announced my intention to provide, at the earliest appropriate date, the necessary additional revenue funding to the council for the roll-out of the training element of the programme.

Jerry Cowley

Ceist:

371 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Health and Children when he intends to publish the long awaited feasibility study on an all Ireland helicopter emergency service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9736/04]

Amharc ar fhreagra

My Department and the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, Belfast, DHSSPS, commissioned a feasibility study and report on the costs and benefits associated with the introduction of a dedicated helicopter emergency medical services, HEMS, for the island of Ireland.

The final report of the consultants appointed to undertake the study has been received by both Departments and will be considered in the context of the strategic development of pre-hospital emergency care services in both jurisdictions. Arrangements for the publication of the report are being finalised.

Barr
Roinn