Ken O ‘Flynn TD has raised serious concerns about recent revelations regarding the treatment of National Ambulance Service officers in relation to their HSE Response vehicles are both alarming and unacceptable.
O’Flynn said: “It has come to my attention that these dedicated professionals may soon face the scrutiny of Benefit in Kind charges, with dire implications for emergency response across communities.
To propose that ambulance officers park up their response vehicles at the end of their shifts is not only impractical but poses a significant threat to public safety. These officers do not simply clock in and out; they are on the front lines of emergency care, often tackling critical situations that demand immediate and expert intervention. As many as 85% of these professionals have traditionally responded to urgent calls after hours, and limiting their access to life-saving equipment will inevitably exacerbate ambulance response times for critically ill patients.”
“Our nation’s health and safety cannot be compromised by bureaucratic decisions made without a full understanding of the potential fallout. The outlined recommendations will fundamentally hinder the ability of highly trained officers to attend to emergencies, jeopardising patient care at the most vulnerable moments of life.”
“This matter is of such urgency that it must be addressed immediately within the Dáil. I call upon the Minister of Finance to intervene before further recommendations are enacted. An exemption for these valiant individuals—who are, without a doubt, the jewels of our society—should be a priority. Instead of penalising those who selflessly dedicate their lives to protecting ours, we should be finding ways to support and empower them.”
The Independent Ireland party stands firmly with our ambulance officers, and we will do everything in our power to advocate for the resources and recognition they deserve.
