11 January 2005

Keep The Accident Helicopters Says NZ First

New Zealand First has called on the ACC minister to stop the Accident Compensation Corporation going ahead with short sighted proposals to reduce the number of helicopter services it funds for attending accidents.

ACC is reviewing funding to a number of helicopter services, including the Bay of Plenty, central North Island, and the top of the South Island.

ACC spokesperson Peter Brown says the “golden” hour after an accident is the most critical time for any accident victim and reducing helicopter services will cause longer delays and flight times.

“ACC is losing sight of its basic aim, which is to assist victims. Its primary function is to provide a service to reduce the impact of accidents, whether on the road, the workplace or in the home.

“The new proposal does not make sense. We will be approaching the minister with a view to keeping the present helicopter services.

“There is no shortage of cash in the Government coffers to keep accident services viable and we will ensure that it happens,” said Mr Brown.

ENDS

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