§ Mr. McGradyTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what proposals he has to introduce an early retirement scheme for ambulance personnel similar to the scheme which operates in England, Wales and Scotland; and if he will make a statement. [27136]
§ Mr. MossA premature retirement scheme exists for all groups of staff within the health and personal social services.
I do not propose to provide funding for a special scheme for ambulance personnel. Funds for such a scheme would have to come out of the resources available for services for patients and clients.