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Bristol Post
Bristol Post
National
Emma Grimshaw

What the ambulance service says about Extinction Rebellion's Bristol protests

This week Bristol was brought to a standstill on numerous occasions as protesters stormed the streets.

Extinction Rebellion members blocked prominent routes including the M32 and the Ministry of Defence.

During these lengthy demonstrations, a number of people spotted ambulances caught up in the jams.

Many got in touch with Bristol Live and posted on social media, slamming the environmental activists for their actions which they claimed put peoples' lives at risk.

One person shared a video on Facebook of an ambulance with its flashing blues lights switched on caught up in queues in Bristol city centre.

However, South Western Ambulance Service has refuted claims protesters have caused disruption to paramedics.

A spokesperson for the authority said emergency services worked together to ensure impact on patients was minimal.

He said:  "We have been working closely with Avon and Somerset police, health care partners and other key organisations, in monitoring the situation very closely all week, to ensure that the delivery of patient care has not been adversely affected by the protests. 

"Through this partnership working we have been able to keep our staff fully updated on any disruption, including road closures and mobile protests around Bristol City and normal trust services have be maintained for the community.”

Why did Extinction Rebellion's uprising take place?

The 'summer uprising' which were taking place in five major cities want the government to bring forward its aim to reduce carbon emissions to net zero from 2050 to 2025.

They were also calling on ministers to declare a 'climate emergency' - which they did  in May.

For the latest news in and around Bristol, check back on Bristol Live's homepage.

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