New Ambulance Station to be operational within six months, Health Minister confirms

The Government has confirmed the new Ambulance Station is expected to be operational within the next six months.

Minister for Health and Care, Gemma Arias-Vasquez said staff and their respective Unions are happy with the plans that have been shared with them. 

She also announced the Cardiac Association have been relocated to a temporary location, with Ambulance Service staff set to move this week – weather permitting. 

Removal of the existing portacabins will take place after this.

Hitting back at criticism from the GSD, the Health Minister said the ambulance service has seen significant investment and expansion under the GSLP Government. 

The Opposition had previously raised concerns around facilities and delays in manifesto commitments. In a statement, Ms Arias-Vasquez said that since 2011, 13 new ambulances have been purchased - with the service now operating under a formal maintenance contract. She also said staffing numbers have increased from 34 to 56 -  including  the introduction of new leadership as well as clinical and educational roles.

Ms Arias-Vasquez acknowledged that while further investments are always needed in this area - explaining that, as with all healthcare, improvements are continuous - she said the GSD’s commentary is in sharp contrast to its own record in government, where she alleges the service was left without proper facilities.

She finished by thanking the ‘incredible men and women of the Gibraltar Ambulance Service, who work day in and day out to keep our community safe’ - and she said the the Government is committed to continuing its support with the facilities, equipment and staffing they deserve.