Army to answer ambulance emergencies

THE Defence Forces have agreed to divert personnel from normal duties to help with emergency calls from the public during upcoming strikes by ambulance crews.

Members of the National Ambulance Service Representative Association (Nasra) are due to take part in three days of industrial action within the next fortnight.

Nasra is a branch of the Psychiatric Nurses Association but the HSE is refusing to deduct union subscription fees from members’ pay.

Ambulance crews are planning to take part in action this Friday and on February 28 and March 1.

A Defence Forces spokesperson confirmed they have received an “Aid To the Civil Authority request” from the HSE.

“Óglaigh na hÉireann will provide cover to the National Ambulance Service (NAS) during the industrial action through the provision of Defence Forces advanced paramedics, paramedics and ambulances,” a statement said.

This will include two ambulances and crews in the Eastern Region and two crews for NAS ambulances in the southern region.