Statement by TUV leader Jim Allister:
“This morning I hosted an event in Stormont addressed by Dr Brian Burns from Sydney, Australia, a world expert on air ambulance provision, to brief MLAs on the importance of such a service. Dr Burns was introduced by the partner of the late Dr John Hinds – Dr Janet Acheson -who championed air ambulance provision before his tragic death in July.
“The event was given special focus by the presence of a 7 year old boy, Shaun McCann, whose like was saved by Dr Hinds on a day when he was with the air ambulance in the Irish Republic. Dr. Acheson made a gift of a toy helicopter to Shaun today.
“It was striking that Dr Burns as part of his presentation, which was to MLAs and several of our local trauma consultants, showed a slide displaying air ambulance provision across the British Isles. Northern Ireland was the only black stop, with no provision.
“The sum of money required to fund such a service is a mere pittance when compared to the savings which would result from better outcomes for patients. Given the huge waste which the public see in government I have no doubt that many of the public question why this essential service cannot be provided.
“It is the ambition of Dr Hinds’ family that the cause that was so dear to his heart might reach fruition with the full provision of an air ambulance service in Northern Ireland. The Minister has taken a step in the right direction, but there needs to be much greater commitment than a mere £200,000 a year. The primary burden in providing this service to taxpayers falls on the Department.
“I trust that this event will help to move the campaign forward.”