First responders appeal for return of missing defibrillator taken from Carlow medical practice

Sarah Slater

First responders are appealing for a missing defibrillator to be returned after being taken from a medical practice.

The defibrillator went missing on Thursday from the Oak Family Medical practice in Carlow town.

The lifesaving device was donated by Winnie Lyons of New Oak Estate, in the town in remembrance of her late husband Mick Lyons Snr to the people of Carlow.

In a statement the Carlow Town CFR said: “Unfortunately the defibrillator located at Oak Family Medical practice also known as Dr Moran’s has not been returned and a statement has been made to the gardaí.

“We are appealing for any information on its whereabouts. If you know anything please contact ourselves or the gardaí so that we can return the defibrillator that the Lyons family so thoughtfully purchased to save lives within our community”.

Gardaí confirmed they are investigating the matter.

Caroline Dargan of Carlow Town CFR told KCLR96FM that they waited for two days before they decided to make the appeal.

Ms Dargan added: “We assume it was taken and its mindless vandalism and thuggery. This is upsetting for them (the Lyons family) and for us. If anyone has information or knows where it is, all we are looking for is that the defibrillator is put back or just leave it somewhere and let us know.

“To have it (defibrillator) taken and vandalism lives are being put at risk. Gardaí are going through CCTV footage to see if information can be gathered. The costs of the defibrillator and associated finance are significant and they are for saving lives. I don’t know why someone would take it”.

Defibrillators around Carlow town have been vandalised on several occasions in the past.