Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 May 2016
494. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Health to recruit extra staff and provide extra resources for the national ambulance service; his views on the recommendations made in the national ambulance service capacity review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11726/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe National Ambulance Service Capacity Review makes it clear that we need a very significant programme of investment in our ambulance services. In that context, a phased investment in a multi-annual programme involving manpower, vehicles and technology is required. The Deputy may wish to note that additional funding of €7.2m has been provided for the National Ambulance Service in 2016 which includes €2m for new developments. The Deputy will also be aware that the Programme for Government commits to additional annual investment in terms of ambulance personnel and vehicles.
The National Ambulance Service has now published an action plan, which incorporates the recommendations of both the HIQA and the Capacity Review. It should be noted that many of the key recommendations of both reviews are already being addressed as part of a significant programme of reform and modernisation of the NAS which has been underway in recent years.
