Lowry’s lifesavers

DEPUTY Michael Lowry, in the Dáil recently, called for funding to provide automatic external defibrillators (AEDs) on a nationwide basis.

This technology can increase the chances of surviving a heart attack by up to 60%. The cost per unit, including operational training, need not exceed €5,000.

Emphasising their importance, Mr Lowry said they should be “as available and as commonplace as fire extinguishers.”

Health Minister Mary Harney could put the recently discovered €149.9m not spent by her department to no better use.

James Gleeson

‘The Grove’

Thurles

Co Tipperary