By Róise Collins
ARRANMORE islanders have raised concerns regarding the new Coast Guard Search and Rescue helicopter, following revelations that the aircraft is too small to safely transport patients on a stretcher.
During a meeting of the island’s committee on Tuesday last, members heard from residents who rely heavily on the Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS).
“Many islanders are deeply concerned that the new AW189 helicopter, planned to be used by the Irish Coast Guard, is not suitable for urgent medical evacuations from islands like ours.
“Last year on Arranmore we had over 60 Helicopter Medivacs, both locals and tourists, of which one third of these were stretchered.
“Compared to the previous S-92, the AW189 has a smaller cabin and no fixed stretcher access in the case of serious casualties, raising serious questions about its ability to safely and comfortably transport patients especially in time-critical emergencies.
“We urge you, as our elected representative, to raise these concerns with the Department of Transport, and support a full review of the aircraft’s suitability for island HEMS operations.
“Our islands communities’ safety depends on it,” a statement from the islands representatives read.
Gaoth Dobhair man Eddie Joe McGee, who recently retired from the Coast Guard after 28 years of service, also expressed concerns about the new helicopter, describing it as too small and stating that the issue “needs to be solved” before the proposed takeover takes place.
The AW189 is being introduced as part of the Coast Guard’s transition from CHC Ireland to the newly appointed operator, Bristow Ireland.
Although the takeover was scheduled for earlier this month, it has been delayed following significant safety concerns related to patient transport.
Local councillor Michael McClafferty echoed the concerns of the islanders, highlighting the lack of space not only for vital medical equipment but also for crew members, who can no longer stand in the aircraft’s cabin.
“You’re not getting the same service, and this could prove detrimental to casualties,” he stressed.
Cllr Micheál Choilm Mac Giolla Easbuig said that this further highlights the broader issues that come with the privatisation of vital services.
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