Lack of staff ‘risking lives’

Ambulance paramedics in Co Clare could be forced to engage in industrial action if the National Ambulance Service does not immediately address the serious issue of staff shortages and ageing vehicles.

Morale among ambulance personnel in the county has been described as being at an all-time low after a meeting between staff and Siptu where grave concerns were expressed about the lack of staff.

Concerns have been expressed that large areas of Clare are being regularly left without ambulance cover while paramedics claim they are short by up to 19 personnel with the service struggling to find cover for shifts.