QAS COMMITTED TO SUPPORTING THE QUEENSLAND ECONOMY

Emergency Services Minister Neil Roberts has reaffirmed the Queensland Ambulance Service’s (QAS) commitment to supporting the Queensland economy.

Following questions in State Parliament today, Mr Roberts said 60% of the total vehicles supplied to the QAS over the last four years were constructed by Queensland companies.

“The supply arrangements established for patient care modules on QAS supplied cab chassis are in accordance with the requirements of the State Purchasing Policy,” he said.

“This ensures that competitive local firms are given a full, fair and reasonable opportunity to supply to the Queensland Government.

“The QAS is required to deal with the most competitive tenderer to ensure a top quality product for ambulance officers and the best value for money for Queensland taxpayers.”

Mr Roberts said as part of the record $404.4 million ambulance budget for 2007-08, the Government has provided funding for 140 new vehicles, including an additional 30-40 vehicles for the fleet.

“The QAS currently has four alternative suppliers on which we can place orders for vehicle builds, and the Commissioner has advised me that he’s confident that we will be able to deliver on our commitments,” he said.

“This Government’s committed to providing the resources needed to counter the unprecedented demand for ambulance services in Queensland.”

Media contact: Tim Shipstone 07 3247 8194, 0409 620 571.

Brendan Connell 07 3247 8992, 0437 837 976