24-7 ambulance service now operating out of Stranorlar

The ambulance service looking after a large section of east Donegal is now operating out of the new Finn Valley Ambulance Station at St Joseph’s Hospital, Stranorlar.

Cllr Gerry Crawford said he received the good news recently following representations to the HSE.

“In short, this means we will have one day crew and one night crew available seven days a week working on a 24-7 basis.

“The Lifford crew which was attached to the hospital will continue to operate out of Stranorlar until facilities become available in their town again,” he said.

Up to this the vast majority of the East Donegal area stretching from Glenfin to Raphoe, Lifford and St Johnston was covered by 12-hour shifts operating out of Lifford and Stranorlar. Any demands outside of this area were covered by an ambulance from elsewhere.

“This announcement changes that and the East Donegal area now has 24 hours seven days a week made up of two 12-hour shifts.

“I have been campaigning for this enhancement of the ambulance service in this area.

“It’s a very welcome development for the new purpose-built ambulance base in Stranorlar.”

Cllr Crawford said he also welcomes the fact that it had also been confirmed to him that the HSE ambulance management is in discussions with the estates section in relation to the reinstatement of the ambulance base back in Lifford.

“In conjunction with the positive news about the restoration of community hospital facilities in Lifford, it’s good to note that the base for the ambulance service is also being discussed.

“This is certainly a positive development in terms of ambulance coverage for that area.

“I am confident that returning the service to Lifford won’t diminish the service that will operate out of Stranorlar either.”