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Emergency Services Health Roads | November 16, 2016

Roads impact on ambulance response times

The Nationals Member for Lowan, Emma Kealy MP says recently released statistics showing Wimmera residents have the longest wait time for ambulances in Victoria comes as no surprise.

“Our roads are riddled with potholes which are slowing down ambulances and making this situation worse,” Ms Kealy said.

“At the same time our appalling road conditions are jeopardising the safety of both our paramedics and their patients.

“Our paramedics are trying their best to help people and the condition of our roads must be incredibly frustrating for them both from a response time and the ability to do their job while in transit.

“It doesn’t matter where you live, every minute counts when you need an ambulance.

“Our paramedics and ambulance community officers are working exceptionally hard and doing their very best in challenging circumstances.

“But they have been forgotten by the Andrews Labor Government.

“The Andrews Labor Government must immediately reverse funding cuts to the country roads budget and support our paramedics in the essential work they do to ensure our local people can access medical treatment when needed.” she said.

Emma Kealy MP continues her call for road hazards to be reported directly to VicRoads through her website www.emmakealy.com or by phoning 13 11 70. This will help give VicRoads the data they need to demonstrate that Labors funding cuts are devastating our local roads.