SOUTH Down MLA Karen McKevitt (SDLP) is to bring forward legislation calling for life-saving Automated External Defibrillators (AEB’s) to be located at all sports facilities and public buildings.
Speaking at the SDLP annual party conference in Armagh at the weekend, the SDLP Leisure spokesperson revealed she had been involved in three separate incidents of collapse at sporting fixtures, involving young and older people. She says a registry detailing the locations of AEB’s is needed.
“Sporting life in Northern Ireland is vibrant and engaging and I want this to remain. Sporting clubs and societies have provided an invaluable community services over the years. This is particularly the case in rural areas in Northern Ireland.
“I have actively encouraged my children to become involved in sport. I want my children to lead active lives. We know the many health benefits – physical and mental – associated with playing sport.
“Therefore, I want to make the environment in which so many young people play as safe as possible. I believe it is essential that an Automated External Defibrillator is present at all sporting fixtures.
“I have seen at first hand, how these machines can save some one’s life. I intend to bring forward legislation to ensure that Automated External Defibrillators are at all physical fitness facilities and public buildings. I will call for a registry to be established – detailing the locations of all Automated External Defibrillators.”
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