16 May 2006

Health

Ambulances Fitted with Defibrillators

Ciarán Cuffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her plans to provide defibrillators in all ambulances; if she will ensure that staff are fully trained in their use; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney): The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. This includes responsibility for the provision of ambulance services.

The Executive has advised that all of its ambulances are equipped with defibrillators and that the Emergency Medical Technicians who operate them are appropriately trained in their use.