Attacks on ambulances - HSE must protect paramedics

THE number and intensity of attacks on ambulance crews had increased dramatically in recent years. It is only a matter of time before somebody is killed or seriously injured, unless they are provided with stab-proof vests, according to the Association of Ambulance Personnel.

Paramedics are currently refusing to answer calls to certain parts of Limerick city without a garda escort. Dublin has also become notorious for attacks on frontline medical personnel.

The association has been campaigning for stab-proof vests for its members for the past three years. Surely the Health Service Executive should face up to the problems before somebody is killed.