Queens Ambulance Service Medal Announced

The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service welcomes the introduction of a new medal approved by Her Majesty the Queen which recognises the work of ambulance staff throughout the UK.

Earlier this week the Secretary of State for Health (Mr Andrew Lansley) informed the House that Her Majesty the Queen has graciously approved a proposal for the issue of a Queen's Ambulance Service Medal (QAM) to recognise distinguished service by the ambulance service.

The “Queen's Ambulance Service Medal” is to be awarded to staff who have demonstrated a devotion to duty and exemplary service over including outstanding ability, merit and conduct over a prolonged period of time.

Similar such medals have been awarded for some time now to our colleagues in the police and fire services and it is expected that the first recipients of the new award will be honoured by the Queen alongside others in the Birthdays Honours list of 2012.

Liam McIvor, Chief Executive of NIAS, said:

“As someone who is aware of the dedication of staff within the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service to serving the community in which they live, I am delighted at this development. Ambulance personnel often go the extra mile for patients who are in immediate need of help and care. Many times our staff carry out their duties in the most trying of circumstances. They do so, not for reward, but out of a sense of duty and care for the vulnerable. To, now, be recognised in this manner will be a great boost to the morale of the staff and I look forward to the day when a member of our staff receives this medal.”

Health Minister Edwin Poots has also welcomed the official launch of the new medal to recognise the invaluable work of Ambulance Service staff in the United Kingdom

“The Ambulance Service is one of the principal emergency services and the introduction of the Queen's Ambulance Service Medal (QAM) acknowledges the challenges and dangers of responding to 999 calls. The QAM will place Northern Ireland Ambulance Service staff on a par with their counterparts in the Police Service of Northern Ireland and the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service who already receive equivalent medals.

“I also wish to pay tribute to all ambulance staff for the dedication and commitment they give to their job, providing life saving care to people in what can sometimes be very difficult and dangerous situations"

15 July 2011