Cavan County Council is set to create a register of defibrillators across the county in conjunction with the National Ambulance Service. The move follows a notice of motion brought forward by Cllr Aidan Fitzpatrick who said the effort would provide immediate care to those who find themselves in a medical emergency.
Speaking to Northern Sound, Cllr Fitzpatrick said all communities across Cavan will be asked to register their medical device with the local authority, and an access code will be provided thereafter.
He pointed out that the National Ambulance Service will ensure that batteries do not run flat; are in good working order; and that the device’s pads are changed every two years. Cllr Fitzpatrick added that these latest developments will "make all the difference" to people in a life or death situation.
"Last year alone there were 20 lives saved using defibrillators, so it shows the importance of having a defibrillator accessible and ready to use. There are 2,500 heart attacks in Ireland every year and just 150 people survive. This means that if the defibrillator is accessible and can be gotten quickly then there is a chance of saving lives," he said.
