URGENT UPDATE: Lagan Valley’s elected officials are demanding immediate action to ensure 24/7 access to heart defibrillators in the community. As part of a critical rollout of lifesaving equipment to schools across Northern Ireland, concerns have emerged regarding the accessibility of some Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), which may be unavailable to the public during school hours.
During a meeting on October 24, 2023, the Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council’s communities and wellbeing committee heard pleas from local leaders. Councillor Claire Kemp expressed urgent concern: “I have received multiple requests from constituents about heart defibrillators. Many school-held defibrillators are only accessible from 9 AM to 3 PM during school hours. We need to explore funding options for community-accessible AEDs.”
Education Minister Paul Givan announced that in 2024, over £700,000 will be allocated for defibrillators in approximately 600 schools. Currently, 420 schools in Northern Ireland have access to onsite defibrillators, while 471 do not. The full deployment is projected to conclude by the end of this year.
Local leaders, including Councillor Jonathan Craig, emphasized the importance of having all new defibrillators registered with the Ambulance Service. Craig stated, “We must also evaluate older defibrillators that may not have received necessary maintenance.”
Alderman Sharon Skillen highlighted the urgent need for additional defibrillators in certain areas, citing a specific case where a nearby defibrillator is frequently unavailable. “Even with the proximity to the Ulster hospital, having a defibrillator accessible during an emergency can be a matter of life and death,” Skillen remarked.
In response to these pressing concerns, a council officer confirmed, “We are actively exploring this issue. Just yesterday, we launched our community grant aid and will also consider potential funding from district electoral areas (DEAs).”
As the situation develops, residents are urged to stay informed and advocate for the necessary resources to ensure that lifesaving defibrillators are available around the clock. This initiative not only reflects a commitment to public health but also addresses the urgent need for accessible emergency care within the community.
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