Newly-qualified paramedics have only been offered 16-week contracts and must reapply for their own jobs despite previous commitments for permanent contracts. The course includes two years of work around the country with the National Ambulance Service while training. In past years graduates were offered permanent jobs on their training bases. Read More Family forced to drive 90km to hospital as ambulance service could not respond to emergency, Dáil hearsThey were “completely blindsided” by the new plan. “Full-time, permanent contracts are available for all year-three graduates completing training with the National Ambulance Service in 2026,” she said.

Source: Irish Examiner March 03, 2026 22:27 UTC