McGimpsey hails prosecution for attack on emergency worker

Michael McGimpsey has said the recent prosecution for an attack on an emergency worker shows that his zero-tolerance message is getting through.

The prosecution followed an attack on a Northern Ireland Ambulance Service employee as their crew attended an emergency call.

Public Safety Minister, Michael McGimpsey said: “Last year I launched a Zero Tolerance campaign to highlight the message that any form of attack against our healthcare staff and emergency services will not be tolerated and that those involved should face the full rigour of the law.

“The custodial sentence which has been passed recently sends that message and I fully support the prosecution of any individual involved in attacks against our healthcare staff and emergency services.”

The Minister continued: “These dedicated individuals work tirelessly and selflessly to care for others. They dedicate themselves to saving lives and to public service and the fact that their life-saving work, is often interrupted by a violent attack or verbal abuse is appalling. It is totally unacceptable.

“None of us know when we, or our families, may require help from healthcare staff and the emergency services. Attacks on them put you and others at risk. I am clearly spelling out today again, the message of Zero Tolerance. Zero Tolerance on attacks. Zero Tolerance on abuse. Zero Tolerance on threatening behaviour.”

Liam McIvor, Chief Executive of the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service said:

“As an organisation we welcome the custodial sentence that has been passed on this occasion. We hope that it sends out the clear message that any type of assault against our staff will not be tolerated. Whenever possible, we will support the prosecution process of any individual involved in this type of activity. NIAS staff are professionals dedicated to helping those in need. They should not have to tolerate attacks on their person in the performance of their duties.

Notes to Editors:

1. On the 10 April 2008, at Belfast Magistrates' Court a man was convicted of 'common assault, Sec 42 of the Offences against the Person Act 1861 after an assault on an employee of the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service and was sentenced to one month in prison. The assault took place on 2 October 2007 as an ambulance crew responded to a call.

2. Minister launched a Zero Tolerance Campaign on 27th June 2007 at the Belfast City Hospital to raise public awareness of the issue.

3. All Health and Social Care (HSC) employers are required to have robust 'Zero Tolerance' policies in place.

4. A Senior Director with accountability for staff safety has been nominated within each HSC organisation.

5. 11,000 free personal alarms have been distributed to HSC staff.

6. The table below shows the total reported figures relating to violence with a breakdown by verbal and physical incidents.

• *This figure represents the first six months to 30 September 2007

7. Press enquiries to the DHSSPS Press Office on 028 90520575. Out of Hours, please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned