Montgomeryshire Assembly Member, Russell George, has spoken about the vital role Wales Air Ambulance plays in delivering critical pre-hospital care in rural Mid Wales.
Speaking during a National Assembly debate on the Welsh Ambulance Service, he praised the paramedic staff of the Wales Air Ambulance but also all those involved in raising funds to maintain the operational output of the service. Mr George also asked the Minister if the Government would again consider additional direct support for this vital service.
Earlier in the week (5th November), Mr George presented a £1,000 cheque to Wales Air Ambulance (WAA) in Welshpool, following a successful Across Wales Walk that he completed during the summer. He also had the opportunity to see the new purpose-built Eurocopter-135 (EC135) helicopter, which now operates out of the airport.
Speaking during the debate, Mr George said:
“The investment made by Wales Air Ambulance (WAA) in this new state of the art technology means that Mid Wales has the most advanced life saving operation in the UK.
“We know that the geographic demands of living in rural Mid Wales, coupled with the lack of a district general hospital means that the facilities offered by WAA are crucial.
“Having the EC135 aircraft based in Welshpool, means that Mid Wales will continue to be very well served by WAA’s critical pre-hospital care service.
“The peace of mind this service brings is priceless and that’s why thousands of people are inspired every year to raise money for this tremendous charity.
“We should not forget that WAA is a chartable service and relies on people like Ann Lewis, who is the local fundraising co-ordinator and many, many other volunteers to keep raising funds and I would like to pay tribute to their tireless efforts for helping to maintain this vital service all year round."
To watch what Russell said during the debate, click on link and forward to about 36 mins and 20 seconds in
http://news.bbc.co.uk/democracylive/hi/wales/newsid_9767000/9767067.stm