Sinn Féin MLA Chris Hazzard has said that the NI Fire and Rescue Service must be allowed to use life-saving defibrillators while attending emergency situations.
The South Down MLA said: “There is no doubt that defibrillators have saved the lives of countless people across South Down in recent years.
“Many people across society have been trained in their use including paramedics, teachers, community workers, members of sporting organisations and members of the public.
“Members of the Fire and Rescue Service, however, despite been first responders to many life-threatening emergency situations, are not currently allowed to use defibrillators in certain circumstances.
“I have met with senior members of the Fire Brigades Union recently and they have said their members want to be able to use defibrillators when responding to emergencies in order to save lives.
Mr Hazzard added: “Our local firefighters carry out amazing work and save many lives each year under very challenging circumstances. They should be supported in all of their life-saving efforts.
“I have now taken this issue up with the Health Minsiter Simon Hamilton and will continue to lobby him on this issue until we reach the logical conclusion.”
