Paramedics and emergency medical technicians, EMTs, play a crucial role in the healthcare system, despite the fact that they are incredibly stretched, with personnel numbers approximately 1,800 short of the target. They are often running on fumes as they try to respond to situations. They are going on strike on Tuesday, as things stand. They do not want to be on strike. They want to be out there responding to emergencies but the reality is they feel that they have no other option because the report that has been sitting around for six years with recommendations to ensure they get basic pay that reflects their responsibilities and duties has not been implemented. Will the Minister for Health intervene to ensure this strike is prevented, there is dialogue and paramedics and EMTs get the pay and conditions they deserve?

Nobody wants to see the National Ambulance Service or paramedics on strike. I commend the fantastic and unbelievable work they do. The Minister for Health has assured me that she, the HSE and the Department are open to further engagement with the National Ambulance Service and want to engage with them through the industrial relations mechanism. That offer, I believe, is there and it is open to the NAS to engage. The Minister very much encourages it to do so before next week.