A new system implemented by the Health Service Executive for rushing patients from the three Aran Islands to hospital is putting lives at risk, according to a councillor. And Cllr Padraig Conneely, a member of the HSE West, claims the new service is ten times more expensive than the previous method, which he says, was working perfectly.

Cllr. Padraig Conneely.

"There are plenty of areas where the HSE can improve the health service, so I don't see the need to get involved and tamper with a system that was working perfectly," he said.

The Coast Guard helicopter will continue to be used to airlift people in emergency situation, but a new system is being used for people with life-threatening conditions who can be moved within a specific time band.

"Up to now such people were brought to the mainland by a charter from Aer Arann from the islands to Rossaveal. This would cost about €400. Of course, it would only cost a few euro if they could be accommodated on one of the many scheduled flights from the islands to Rossaveal.

"The only doctor on the three islands, Dr Marion Broderick, has confirmed to me that this system worked. It allowed her make a call on the ground about how a person was to be moved. Dr Broderick has worked on the islands for 30 years so she knows what she is talking about," added Cllr. Conneely. He said that the new system would see the cost of moving a patient rocket to €4,000 and he is concerned about the service heading into the peak tourists season when thousands will visit the islands.

"Under the new system, Dr Broderick has to ring a Department of Transport office in Castlebar and they will decide what mode of transport to use.

"The Air Corps ambulance helicopter is based in Baldonnel. It will have to fly to Galway Airport, pick up a paramedic and fly to the islands. It just does not make sense and seems a terrible waste of money," he added.

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