The launch of a new emergency response system could spark off a fresh rift within the Government.

For the new system, which uses trained fire and Police personnel to provide medical attention in emergency situations, has been both praised and condemned by two Cabinet colleagues.

Yesterday, before presenting newly trained emergency service personnel with emergency medical dispatch certificates, Public Safety Minister Paula Cox heralded the new system, devised to cut 911 emergency response times, as "a win win situation''.

Ms Cox, who was joined by Cabinet Ministers Arthur Hodgson and Ewart Brown and PLP MP Dale Butler at the ceremony, said two things had struck her about the new system: the fact that it saved lives by reducing response times but was also cost effective.

"With the new Budget of this new Government just around the corner this has to be a win win situation,'' the Minister said. "It doesn't get much better than that -- a life saving service that is both cost effective and logical.

"All these services working together for the good of the community -- that is something that we commend, applaud and are honoured to be a part of. I am confident that the efforts you have made will be a success.'' But Ms Cox's remarks are in stark contrast to those made by fellow Cabinet Minister, Renee Webb.

Just three months ago, Ms Webb, then Shadow Health Minister, condemned the new system as "unfeasible and unworkable''.

And she claimed that the idea had been hatched by the UBP Government as "a quick-fix solution'' to pick up votes.

In an interview with The Royal Gazette Ms Webb said: "Surely we are not going to see accident victims being taken towards the hospital in fire trucks? "It's clear that this is just another bribe the UBP are making on the eve of the Election.'' Last night neither Minister could be contacted to discuss their differing views on the issue.