'Boxer' says reports of possible cuts to Athlone air ambulance service "are worrying"

Local TD and Minister of State Kevin 'Boxer' Moran has described possible cuts to the air ambulance service, which has a base in Athlone, as "worrying", and added that he and fellow Minister of State Michael Healy-Rae will be working to avert them.

Earlier this week, Minister Healy-Rae called on the National Ambulance Service to roll back plans to cut the air ambulance service and to clarify their future intentions for the service.

In a statement today (Thursday), Minister of State Moran said he was concerned about the possible consequences of a diminished service following the resignations of ten highly skilled advanced paramedics that had been staffing the helicopter emergency medical service, which has bases in Cork and in Athlone's Custume Barracks.

"There appears to be an issue emerging between HSE management and clinical experts about a potential move from a two-person advanced paramedic crew, to one with just a solo advanced paramedic," said 'Boxer'.

"The reports are worrying and I intend to take up the matter with the HSE as a matter of urgency," he added.