2677. Deputy Pat Buckley asked the Minister for Health the guidance in place for families living in rural areas who may be up to an hour away from emergency medical services when a child's condition deteriorates rapidly; the supports or contingency measures that are available in such circumstances where time is critical; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23827/26]

As this is a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive (HSE) to reply to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.