SIPTU representatives have condemned an apparent act of vandalism in which the windows of a Health Service Executive (HSE) ambulance, which was parked outside the Mater Hospital in Dublin 7, were broken in the early hours of this morning (Monday, 11th September). SIPTU Organiser, John McCamley, said: “The driver and passenger side windows were smashed by a brick while the vehicle was parked outside the emergency department of the Mater Hospital as staff transferred a patient. “While vandalism of this nature is fortunately not common, it is deeply regrettable that it occurs at all. When such incidents do occur all the relevant stakeholders must fully co-operate in the follow up investigation and with putting any relevant new safeguards in place.” He added: "SIPTU representatives also insist that the management of the HSE make every effort to ensure our members are not placed in any situation which would put them at risk.” Irish Ambulance Representative Council Chairperson, Peter Ray, said: “Thankfully staff were not in the vehicle at the time of this incident. However, it did result in an emergency vehicle being taken off the road for a period of time and its repair will have a financial cost.”