Niall Ó Donnghaile (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I join colleagues in commending the Fianna Fáil Senators who have brought this Bill back before us today. I also acknowledge the role played by our former colleague, Dr. Keith Swanick. I spoke on Second Stage and indicated my support and that of Sinn Féin for the legislation. I reiterate this support today. I acknowledge the vital work community first responders do throughout Ireland. I was listening to the debate as people were reflecting on that and thought about a colleague of mine who people will know, Michelle Gildernew, MP for Fermanagh and South Tyrone. I have been on Zoom meetings in more recent times where she has had to get up and run out the door because there has been a car crash or a neighbour in her rural constituency has had a heart attack so I know how crucial the work done by community first responders is.

After the very public incident involving Christian Eriksen, I contacted the Cathaoirleach and asked on the Order of the Business that we would install additional defibrillators around this institution not only for our own protection but to lead by example as an institution. Like Senator Casey, I welcome the very visual number of defibrillators around the building. I received training in defibrillator use many years ago when I worked in a primary school. I do not know if I could manage one right now so part of my request at the time was that the Houses of the Oireachtas Commission would consider making training available to Oireachtas Members. I reiterate that call if it is not already in train. I support the legislation and look forward to it coming back and getting through the House.