'A vital asset': West Cork town secures new public defibrillator

The Mayor of the County of Cork has officially launched a public defibrillator in a West Cork town, a development local volunteers say may have live-saving benefits.

The new defibrillator, unveiled in Dunmanway by the county mayor, Fianna Fáil county councillor Joe Carroll, marks a significant addition to the community’s emergency response capabilities.

It also signifies a major milestone for CFR (Community First Responders) Dunmanway, a volunteer group dedicated to saving lives through rapid response to emergency calls.

Starting barely two years ago with one kit bag and a defibrillator, and covering a 10km radius, the group has now expanded its reach to a 15km radius, from Ballineen to Drimoleague, Coppeen to Drinagh, and everywhere in between.

Since its first call-out in September 2022, CFR Dunmanway has responded to over 155 calls, including 52 in this year alone. 

Now, each volunteer carries a kit bag complete with a defibrillator, ready to provide assistance as quickly as possible.

The group offers free training to the public, businesses, organisations, schools, and clubs, and assists in maintaining defibrillators.

Mr Carroll was joined at the launch by fellow councillors Noel O’Donovan and Daniel Sexton to witness a hands-on CPR demonstration of CPR, showcasing the volunteers’ life-saving skills.

Welcoming Dunmanway’s new public defibrillator, Stephen O’Flaherty, CEO of the National Ambulance Service, praised CFR Dunmanway for its work.

“Statistically, 36% of deaths in Ireland are due to heart attacks, making this public defibrillator a vital asset for Dunmanway,” Mr O’Flaherty said.

Mr Carroll officially activated the Dunmanway public defibrillator by attaching the battery to the AED, bringing it to life, and remembering the CFR Dunmanway motto: “We hope you never need us, but we’re here when you do”.