Reilly blames unions for ambulance shift reform

Health Minister James Reilly has admitted making ambulance paramedics work 22-hour shifts is “not safe” — but has blamed unions for reform delays.

Speaking after the Irish Examiner revealed a €100,000-plus ambulance was written off last week after a paramedic fell asleep at the wheel, Dr Reilly voiced working time concerns.

The incident, which is under HSE investigation, involved a two-person paramedic team who hit an ESB pole in West Cork.