According to Maynooth Councillor Angela Feeney, automated external defibrillators (AEDs) should be installed in housing estates. The call comes after Cllr. Feeney witnessed an incident in which emergency services were called to assist a resident in Maynooth.
“I was out canvassing in Moyglare Hall during the local election campaign, and a resident had a cardiac event. While I waited with the family’s neighbours for the emergency services to arrive, one of the residents suggested AEDs should be available in housing estates.”
During the incident, a family member raced to Maynooth GAA, where the nearest AED was located. The first Responders arrived on the scene, and there was a positive outcome. This prompted Cllr Feeney to bring the issue forward, highlighting the critical role AEDs can play in saving lives during cardiac emergencies.
“Having a defibrillator on hand in these estates could save lives,” she said, pointing out that minutes can be crucial in such situations. However, the Council clarified that it is not directly responsible for installing AEDs in housing estates and has referred the matter to the HSE.
Cllr. Feeney also discussed the issue with Darren Lee from Maynooth-based First Responders. He expressed frustration about the issue, stating that three AEDs were still in boxes waiting to be installed. After contacting ESB networks about installing them on a public light pole in his estate, Parklands, he was told it is a matter for the Council as it is a public light.”
Cllr. Feeney will pursue this potentially life-saving measure with all parties.
”First Responders told me there had been three cardiac arrests in the past five weeks, and managed to revive all three people. I want to thank them for the great work they do,” Cllr. Feeney adds.
Cllr. Feeney is pushing for defibrillators in existing estates and believes AEDs should be a standard feature in new housing developments.