Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin
Ceist:
553. Deputy Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin asked the Minister for Health if she will engage with the National Ambulance Service (NAS) following reports that approximately 80 newly qualified paramedics received an email from the NAS instructing them to sign a 16-week contract extension in order to remain in employment long enough to apply for a permanent position; the reason no prior engagement or warning was provided to the paramedics concerned regarding this change; if she will address concerns that this process enables the NAS to introduce the previously rejected roles and responsibilities, leaving new paramedics with no choice but to accept them in order to secure permanent positions; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17994/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra
The National Ambulance Service (NAS) is committed to continued expansion of its front-line workforce in 2026 through a series of planned new developments. As part of this, the HSE has confirmed that full-time, permanent contracts are available for all Year-Three graduates completing the Paramedic programme with NAS in 2026. Graduates play a vital role in maintaining workforce capacity by filling vacancies arising from retirements and promotions, as well as supporting the creation of new posts linked to new service development under the National Service Plan. It is essential that NAS can prioritise the placement of these graduates to fill roles in areas with the greatest operational need. To ensure a fair and transparent allocation of permanent posts, graduates have been asked to apply through a confined internal competition. This approach is consistent with recruitment processes used elsewhere in the health service. Graduates have been asked to select their three preferred locations within a region, and every effort will be made to accommodate first preferences. Where vacancies are oversubscribed, the process being implemented will ensure a fair and equitable allocation of roles.
While completing their BSc. (Hon) in Paramedic Studies, student paramedics hold a Specified Purpose Contract (SPC). As NAS works to fill the permanent positions, year-three graduates have been given a 16-week extension to their SPC to ensure continuity of service and employment for the graduates.
Question No 554 answered with Question No 516.
Question No 555 answered with Question No 516.
Question No 556 answered with Question No 516.
Question No 557 answered with Question No 516.
Question No 558 answered with Question No 516.
Question No 559 answered with Question No 516.
Question No 560 answered with Question No 516.
Question No 561 answered with Question No 516.
