I propose to answer Questions Nos. 289 to 293, inclusive, together.
The Health Service Executive (HSE) has advised that when private ambulance services are contracted to deliver services on its behalf, they must comply with the requirements as laid down by the National Ambulance Office. Private ambulance services carrying out emergency transport duties on the Executive's behalf are required to have two crew members who are Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) registered with the Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Council. The Council is responsible for the development of professional and performance standards for the ambulance services and for the accreditation of institutions providing training for ambulance personnel.
In relation to non-emergency hospital transfers, the minimum requirement is that a registered EMT, a registered nurse or a clinician (where required), travel with the patient.
My Department has asked the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the HSE and the Director of the Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Council to arrange to have the other issues raised by the Deputy investigated and to have a reply issued to her directly.