German calls for ambulance service re-localisation

4.27.55pm BST (GMT +0100) Tue 26th Sep 2006

Mike German has called on Assembly Ministers to consider breaking up the all-Wales ambulance service as a way of improving response times.

New chief Executive Alan Murray revealed today that he is seeking an additional £140m over the next ten years in order to improve the service. The trust has had three chief executives in the last six months, and has struggled to meet response targets for emergencies in parts of Wales.

At First Minister's Questions today, Mr German said: "In the ambulance service Chief Execs come and Chief Execs go. The latest says the service needs £140m. One of his predecessors resigned because he wouldn't make cuts.

"Will you commit today to examining all the options, including the re-localising to match other blue light services?"

Mr Morgan said he would not wish to pre-judge the on-going review of the service.

Speaking afterwards, Mike German said: "I'm disappointed that Rhodri was reluctant to commit to looking at this issue. Our ambulance service covers an enormous area and I believe there would be significant benefits in sharing boundaries and - more importantly - facilities with the fire service.

"A local ambulance service in North, South and Mid Wales would create an environment where collaboration would be the norm, not the exception. By sharing facilities and back office functions, we could ensure responsive, high-quality blue light services in all our communities.