In a letter to Independent TD Denis Naughten, Simon Harris says various state agencies are working hard to ensure an interim solution is in place before the winter.

Simon Harris and Keir Starmer spoke on the phone last night.

He was greeted by the cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Paschal Fitzmaurice and senior members of Coillte.

There has been much speculation recently that the election will be called shortly after the delivery of the Budget.

Fine Gael committed to the ambulance service when the A&E at Roscommon Hospital was closed 13 years ago.

Simon Harris said he would take a leading role in finding a permanent solution to the ongoing crisis in south Roscommon.

Simon Harris met with families affected by the crisis in the south Roscommon area in recent weeks.