NORTHERN Ireland is to get an air ambulance paid for with money raised from fines of banking institutions over the Libor scandal.
It follows increased calls for air cover in the north following the death of Dr John Hinds, a long time campaigner for such a service.
He was killed last year at a motorcycle road race in Dublin.
It prompted thousands of people to sign a petition calling for an air ambulance service in his memory.
It has been estimated it would cost around £2m to set up and a further £1.8m a year to run.
British chancellor George Osborne used his budget yesterday to announce more than £4m gathered from banks caught up in the Libor scandal would be diverted towards the service.
EY tax director Ian Edwards said the announcement was "a sweet and very welcome result for the air ambulance in honour of Dr John Hinds with the funds earmarked for the Helicopter Emergency Medical Service".
A spokesperson for campaign group Air Ambulance Northern Ireland said: “We are delighted that the Chancellor of the Exchequer has today announced the provision of £4m in Libor fines to help establish the first air Ambulance Service for Northern Ireland. This is a very welcome step to bring this lifesaving service to Northern Ireland.”
UUP MP Tom Elliott added: "There will be great public support for the announcement of £4million funding for an air ambulance for Northern Ireland. It is unbelievable that we are the only region of the United Kingdom not to have an air ambulance. This is something that can save lives and enhance our trauma service."
In Scotland, fines from banks caught up in the Libor scandal will pay for community facilities in Helensburgh and for naval personnel at Faslane.
