Dedicated HEMS vital for rural areas

He said: “Dr John Hinds campaigned tirelessly for a Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) and now that the south are moving ahead with a permanent service the North must also secure a new air ambulance and provide an effective all island service to save lives.

“North Antrim is somewhere that is quite remote from Belfast, that has a beautiful coastline that can be quite treacherous and dangerous and there are many incidents each year where an air ambulance would undoubtedly improve survival rates.

“It would also be of huge benefit to the people of Rathlin Island.

“I have spoken with many within the local motorcycling fraternity in recent weeks that are passionate about this campaign and recognise the need for this service. The Health Minister should take another look at this issue. This is a service that is vitally important to rural communities like this and I would urge the public to sign the petition that has been set up since Dr Hinds sadly lost his life. The securing of such a service would indeed be a fitting tribute to him.”

Air Ambulances can respond to crisis faster and more effectively than any other type of ambulance- dramatically increasing a person’s chances of survival.

Please add your name to the petition which can be found at:

https://www.change.org/p/the-northern-ireland-assembly-lets-push-ahead-with-dr-john-hinds-campaign-to-get-an-air-ambulance-off-the-ground-for-northern-ireland-let-s-make-this-a-lasting-tribute-for-an-exceptional-man-hems4ni