Timor-Leste ambulances back on the road
13 October 2014
The Ministry of Health announced today that one third of its ambulance fleet have been repaired and are back on the road with a total of 31 vehicles repaired and serviced this year.
Australian Ambassador to Timor-Leste, Peter Doyle, joined Timor-Leste Health Minister, Dr Sergio Lobo, to launch the new Ambulance Maintenance Program and a new workshop in Dili.
This is a Ministry-led initiative that Australia is proud to be supporting. Mr Doyle said the ambulance program was a practical measure to save lives by helping people in remote areas to access health services.
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 Australian Ambassador Peter Doyle addressed the inauguration event in Caicoli, Dili. Photo: Australian Embassy Dili |
“Australia is strongly committed to supporting the Ministry of Health’s priorities to improve health outcomes of Timorese in all 13 districts. We are delighted to be working with the Ministry of Health in supporting a program of maintenance. Ambulances are an important asset that should be maintained,” said Mr Doyle.
“A strong and reliable transport system is an immediate priority for the Ministry, and Australia is providing AUD$1.2 million over the next two years to support this.”
 Timor-Leste Health Minister, Dr Sergio Lobo and Mr Doyle tour the new facility. Photo: Australian Embassy Dili |
 Lead Transport Facilitator, Jon Moores (left), tours the new facility with the Health Minister and Australian Ambassador. Photo: Australian Embassy Dili |
The Ministry of Health is also establishing ‘mobile mechanics’ (like bush mechanics) who will conduct regular maintenance (every three months) and small repairs of ambulances and multi-function vehicles in all 13 districts. There will be two teams working in the east and west and managed by the Ministry.
The Ministry of Health has also established a GPS system for Dili managers to track fuel use and a large fleet of vehicles.
The program is also supporting local businesses by sourcing vehicle parts locally and local mechanical repair businesses.
 Jon Moores and the Ambulance Maintenance Program team show their new inspection facility to the Australian Ambassador. Photo: Australian Embassy Dili |
 Ambulance Maintenance Program team members show the Ambassador through a recently rehabilitated Ambulance. Photo: Australian Embassy Dili |