SEVEN defibrillators are being made available across Donegal’s small Gaeltacht islands following a successful funding application by Comharchumann na nOileán Beag.
The defibrillators supported through the Leader Programme, will be located on Inis Caorach, Inis Fraoigh, Inis Mhic a’ Doirn, Oileán Ghabhla, Inis Oirthear, Inis Bó Finne and Oileán Ruaidh.
With none of the islands having a resident doctor or nurse, access to emergency medical assistance can be particularly challenging, especially where transport to the mainland can be affected by weather and sea conditions.
Representatives from Inis Mhic a’ Doirn, Manus Boyle, Denise O’Boyle, Laird Dinsmore, Susan Dinsmore, Noreen Gallagher, Rosemary Gallagher, Rosaleen McShane and Anthony Gallagher.
Bridget Nic Gairbheith, manager of Comharchumann na nOileán Beag, said the provision of the defibrillators represents an important investment in the safety of island communities.
“With no resident medical personnel on our islands, it is vital that we put practical measures in place to support our communities in the event of a medical emergency,” she said.
“Our island populations are growing and we are seeing increasing numbers of visitors, so having readily accessible defibrillators is an important addition to island safety.”
Denis O’Boyle accepting the defibrillator on behalf of Inis Fraoigh from Bridget Nic Gairbheith.
She added the Comharchumann also recognised that providing the equipment was only part of the initiative, with training being equally important.
Through the support of Donegal Local Development Company under the SICAP Programme, three CPR and defibrillator training courses were organised for island communities. The courses provided islanders with practical skills and the confidence to respond quickly should an emergency arise.
The Comharchumann expressed its appreciation to both LEADER and DLDC SICAP for their support, which helped strengthen emergency preparedness and community safety across Donegal small islands.
The initiative is seen as a valuable community investment, helping to provide greater reassurance for island residents, families and the increasing number of visitors travelling to the islands.
Bridget Nic Gairbheith presenting a defibrillator to Hughie Gallagher, Mary Gallagher and Christopher Doherty of Inis Caorach.
Harry Coll, Marcella Coll, Mary McGonigle and Dónall Coll, Inis Bó Finne, who were presented with a defibrillator for the island.
Bridget Nic Gairbheith, manager of Comharchumann na nOileán Beag, pictured with representatives from Inis Oirthear, Margaret McCullagh; Oileán Ruaidh, Paddy and May Doherty, Oileán Ghabhla, Eimear Nic Giolla Bhríde, Síle Uí Ghallchóir, Eddie Mac Aoidh and Declan Ó Fearraigh. Photos: Tommy Curran.