Phil Prendergast (Labour)

Following on from Senator Callely, I wish to tell people about the heartsafe programme in Clonmel. It is the only heartsafe town in the country. A total of 16 defibrillators are placed throughout the town. The aim is to have ten people trained on resuscitation on each of those defibrillators. I have raised previously in the House that defibrillators are placed around the Houses as well and Members should know how to use them. In Clonmel we recently had a public display on how to use defibrillators. One of those involved in the display was a six year old boy, which shows exactly how easy it is to use a defibrillator.

It is incumbent on Members of the House to know how to use defibrillators. It is so easy to do. It would give a certain amount of security and ensure people would have more of an interest in their health. People should have certain tests carried out at a certain time in their lives. Many people present would fall into that category. It would be a good exercise to have physical health check-ups and for people to be aware of the facilities we have in the Houses.