Military could help NI ambulances, says Allen

The Afghan war veteran was speaking after the Ministry of Defence announced that nearly 200 members of the armed forces are being loaned to NHS ambulance services in England and Wales to support their work during the coronavirus pandemic.

Members of the RAF are already assisting the Scottish Ambulance Service with a trial of a medical isolation and transport system.

On Saturday the News Letter revealed that the UUP Health Minister Robin Swann has submitted two requests for military assistance.

But Sinn Fein deputy First Minister leader Michelle O’Neill has rejected Army assistance for Northern Ireland’s health service, saying “we are coping”.

Andy Allen, speaking to the News Letter, said his party colleague Robin Swann was right to request military assistance.

He also suggested armed forces personnel could provide similar help with the ambulance services in Northern Ireland in a .

“Military personnel can bring a lot to the table,” he said. “Obviously Robin Swann has made a request now and I support him in that.

“The important aspect in all of this is that every approach has been to save lives. I have no doubt that, as he said in the assembly a number of weeks ago, he will us every tool at his disposal.

“Individuals who are serving within the armed forces will have built up a plethora of skills — including driving large vehicles and logistics.

“I would imagine a lot of the skills and experience within the military could be directly transferable. Why would you not use every resource at your disposal?”