GARDAÍ FOCUS ON 2025 NATIONAL ROLLOUT FOR BODY CAMERAS
BUDGET 2025 BONANZA FOR JUSTICE, HEALTH & DEFENCE SECTORS
UNICEF Ireland is now appealing for donations to help send lifesaving supplies to the children in Gaza and Lebanon, where more than one million homeless children now face the threat of disease across the conflict areas.
14
One year into the deadly conflict in Gaza, over half a million people face catastrophic food insecurity. With a 170% increase in malnutrition, a collapsing health system and over one million Palestinians in need of shelter kits before winter, getting aid in has never been more crucial, or challenging.
Revelations that 68 serving Defence Forces members have convictions or are before the courts is the latest scandal to rock Óglaigh na hÉireann. With a long-awaited tribunal and an independent review, there is both hope and scepticism that systemic issues can be addressed some 24 years
after accounts of sexism and violence were first reported.
A total of 19 lives were saved from drowning by 32 heroic rescuers, (including several members of An Garda Síochana), from all parts of the country who received due recognition at Water Safety Ireland’s National Annual Awards Ceremony for 2024 in Dublin Castle’s Hibernia Conference Centre in early October.
The third phase of the Body Camera pilot programme for Gardaí, recently launched in Waterford by the Minister for Justice, Helen McEntee and the Garda Commissioner Drew Harris, is the final stage to test the use of the cameras before a national rollout next year.
ROAD SAFETY
Government resources to enhance road safety has seen the allocation of €9 million in funding to roll out up to 100 new speed cameras throughout Ireland under Budget 2025, as
Now in its 11 th year, ‘National Services Day 2024’ on Saturday 14 September celebrated Ireland’s frontline emergency services personnel. This year’s event saw over 20 statutory and voluntary services take to the streets of Dublin, in addition to Cork, Kildare, Kilkenny, Limerick, Drogheda and Wexford.
PHECC RESEARCH CONFERENCE 2024
The ‘Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Research in Ireland’ Conference 2024 returns on Wednesday 13 November to the Glenroyal Hotel, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, following the success of the inaugural event last November.
50
JUSTICE & DEFENCE
Budget 2025 has allocated almost €4bn in the justice sector to equip frontline Gardaí with the resources to strengthen crime prevention and detection measure, while €1.35bn will be invested in Defence funding, to enable further progress in transforming the Defence Forces as recommended by the Commission and the Independent Review Group.
56
DARA FITZPATRICK AWARD 2024
The second year of the Capt Dara Fitzpatrick Award ceremony on 1 May again served to remember Dara’s legacy as one of Ireland’s first Irish Coast Guard Search and Rescue pilot by celebrating inspirational women who work in Ireland’s
pre-hospital community and emergency services.
FORENSIC SCIENCE IRELAND
Forensic Science Ireland’s new €100m laboratory and headquarters in Celbridge, Co. Kildare, will facilitate the FSI to take advantage of evolving DNA and other technologies in criminal investigations and providing support of missing persons’ investigations.
www.emergency-services.ie
@EmergencyIrlMag
www.facebook.com/emergencyservicesireland
Ireland’s heart and stroke charity Croí has highlighted the need to implement a national strategy by 2025 to tackle cardiovascular disease, which claims the lives of 9,000 people in Ireland each year.
A new national police headquarters could be on the cards in the UK, with the growing realisation that the current set-up is not working and even the 43-force structure could be under threat with warnings that smaller forces are facing mergers because they are not financially sustainable.
DEMENTIA CARE NETWORK 91
The Dementia Carers Campaign Network (DCCN) celebrates its 10th anniversary this year, with the Minister of State for Mental Health and Older People, Mary Butler TD, joining in the celebrations of the advocacy group's decade-long commitment to support the carers of people living with dementia.
93
UKRAINE HEALTHCARE TRAINING
A researcher from Coventry University has played her part in the humanitarian effort in Ukraine by training healthcare workers and rehabilitation specialists as they care for those injured and impacted by the war with Russia.
A study carried out by doctors at University Hospital Galway has revealed a doubling of trauma cases amidst an older patient profile emerging over the course of a decade, based on critical care data from UHG over a ten-year period.
HOSPITAL TRAUMA STUDY ‘CPR 4 SCHOLS’ PROGRAMME
The Irish Heart Foundation is calling on all schools to participate in the ‘CPR 4 Schools’ programme by training students in lifesaving CPR skills, throughout the whole school year.
Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that the information included in correct, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for errors, omissions or discrepancies. The views expressed are no necessarily those of the publisher.
FIRST-TIME FUNDING FOR HEART AND STROKE PATIENTS IN BUDGET 2025
The Irish Heart Foundation has welcomed community support funding announced by Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly as a lifeline for heart patients and stroke survivors across Ireland.
The €600,000 provided in the Budget for the charity’s heart and stroke connect services is the first national funding ever given for support programmes to improve the quality of life of those people affected. It will have a profound impact on the lives of thousands of families," said Director of Advocacy Chris Macey.
“These supports, championed by Minister Donnelly, reduce requirement for nursing home care among stroke survivors and the revolving door
Chris Macey, Director of Advocacy at the Irish Heart Foundation
syndrome of hospital readmissions among heart failure patients.
"So, the funding will not only
improve quality of life and wellbeing on a significant sale, it will also significantly reduce the burden on frontline services.”
The €2m earmarked to develop a new cardiovascular plan was also vital in order to deliver long-term improvements to cardiac services.
Cardiovascular disease is responsible for around 30% of all deaths in Ireland and there are around 80,000 heart and stroke patient discharges from hospital annually – which equates to one every seven minutes.
He said that the €2.5m for the implementation of the National Stroke Strategy was also “crucial in terms of providing vital posts to meet an upsurge in the stroke rate in Ireland”.
‘GEOFF KING AWARD 2024’ FOR GALWAY COMMUNITY FIRST RESPONDER
Since the Eyrecourt CFR Group in East Galway was first established by Padraic Loughnane in 2016, he has developed the group, provided training and streamlined responses to calls both within his own group and for many other CFR groups across the country.
It was for these very reasons that he was presented with the Geoff King Award 2024, at RESPOND – hosted by the national first responder network CFR Ireland on 21 September, which also marked the 10th anniversary of the conference and exhibition for CFRs.
the Geoff King Award by Gearóid Ó’Cinnéide following CFR Ireland’s conference ‘Respond 2024’ on 21 September.
The award was named in honour of Dr Geoff King, the Australian who became the first Director of the Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Council (PHECC) in Ireland. His mantra was ‘put the patient first and the rest will follow’ and he was always a great supporter of CFRs.
Following Dr King’s untimely passing in 2014, his family set up the award in his memory, to recognise an individual, a community, an organisation or group that has gone the extra mile, gone outside their comfort zone, put in a special effort or were innovative in some way in strengthening the “chain of survival”.
According to CFR Ireland The recipient of the Geoff King Award for 2024 “certainly meets the criteria”. Presented each year at RESPOND, the award recognises an individual, community, organisation or group that has gone the extra mile outside their comfort zone, putting in a special effort or innovative in strengthening the ‘chain of survival’.
Eyrecourt CFR Group founder and leader Padraic Loughnane was presented with
From advancing gene-editing technologies and discovering unique ways to treat the most challenging diseases to enabling the intelligence of devices – Merck is everywhere.
• The site in Carrigtwohill, Cork is the global ‘Membrane Centre of Excellence’ for Merck and produces millions of feet of all types of membrane on an annual basis. The membrane is also a key component in the rapid antigen tests for COVID-19.
• We specialise in the manufacture of filtration and medical devices.
• We manage an extensive Biotools operation, making 120m units annually.
• We are a world leader in affinity chromatography resin manufacture.
and Community Engagement.
ROBOTIC-ASSISTED SURGERY PROGRAMME AT BON SECOURS HOSPITAL CORK
Bon Secours Hospital Cork has launched a new stateof-the-art robotic-assisted surgery programme – the da Vinci surgical system – and the €2m technology investment marks another significant milestone by the hospital group in Ireland.
The robotic-assisted surgical system, provided by Intuitive Surgical, is expected to treat approximately 500 patients annually. The programme aims to empower the hospital’s surgical team to perform minimally invasive procedures with unmatched precision. The new programme will result in reduced recovery times and improved overall patient wellbeing.
The CEO of Bon Secours Hospital Cork, Harry Canning, said the surgery programme represents a significant investment in the future of healthcare delivery at the hospital. “This system will be
Minister Michael McGrath; Prof Philip Cornford and Harry Canning, CEO Bon Secours Hospital Cork - at the unveiling of a new state-of-the-art robotic-assisted surgery programme featuring the da Vinci surgical system.
available for a wide range of other surgical interventions, including gynaecological and general procedures, ensuring patients receive the highest standard of care.”
Dr Matt Hewitt, Consultant Gynaecologist at Bon Secours Hospital Cork, said that the robot will
both increase the range of minimally invasive operations and the number of women who can benefit from them. “The net result will be shorter hospital stays, faster recovery times, and an overall improvement in patient outcomes.”
Bon Secours Health System’s €300m national investment is part of its ‘Resilience, Reliability and Readiness – 2025 Plan’, which includes new capital projects, state-of-the-art equipment, IT infrastructure and the creation of 450 new jobs across the country.
Last year then Taoiseach Leo Varadkar turned the sod on a new €190m Bon Secours Hospital in Ballysimon, Limerick, which is due to open in 2025. This expansion will create 250 new jobs and expand services offered to patients in the mid-west, while Bon Secours Hospital Tralee plans to open a new €10m medical assessment unit and surgical day ward.
MERCY UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL FOUNDATION FUNDS CRITICAL CARE TROLLEY
Cork’s Mercy University Hospital has rolled out a state-of-the-art Critical Care Transport Trolley designed to ensure the safe and efficient transfer of critically ill patients.
Funded by the Mercy University Hospital Foundation at a cost of €59,214, the trolley and related equipment can be configured to meet the varying clinical needs of patients. Critically ill patients are transferred from ‘The Mercy’ on an emergency basis to critical care specialist centres and hospitals, both locally and nationally.
With the new equipment in place, these emergency transfers, co-ordinated with the National Ambulance Service, will be safer and timelier, while maintaining the high standard of care needed during critical interventions. Previously, the hospital relied on borrowing similar equipment for such transfers.
Eoin Cahill, CNM3 Critical Care, Mercy University Hospital, said that the addition of the critical care trolley “will expedite the safe transfer of our critically ill patients to where they need to be, as quickly as possible. Time is critical in these situations, and this new equipment ensures patient safety remains our top priority”.
Mercy University Hospital Foundation’s Interim CEO Deirdre Finn who is also the Head of Fundraising, said
that funding the trolley aligns with the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to investing in the latest technology and equipment to improve patient experience at ‘The Mercy’. For more information visit www.mercyhospitalfoundation.ie
Mercy University Hospital’s Teresa Marshall, ICU Clinical Facilitator; Michelle O’Mahony, Consultant Anaesthetist/ Intensivist, Clinical Lead ICU; Angela Beck, CNM3 Theatre; and Eoin Cahill, CNM3 Critical Care, with the hospital's new Critical Care Transport Trolley.
HEALTHY UPTAKE OF VHI FREE SELF-SERVICE CHECKS NATIONWIDE
Free health assessments are now available across a wide range of Vhi selfservice stations nationwide to encourage active monitoring of health and wellbeing, according to recent insights released by the healthcare provider.
The on-the-spot health assessment stations at workplaces and other sites across the country, provided by Vhi in partnership with Sisu Health, measures blood pressure (BP), body mass index (BMI), perceived stress, as well as screening for diabetes and cardiovascular risks. Users can subsequently benefit from lifestyle advice on health issues through an integrated portal, with signposting provided to GPs in cases of identified health risks.
Since the free health checks
scheme was introduced by Vhi in September 2022, health assessments have been made available at 540 self-service stations in workplaces nationwide to encourage active monitoring of health and wellbeing. The scheme has generated 50,000 free self-service health checks over a two-year period.
More than 9,000 people have also been recommended to contact their GP following a health assessment. These referrals encourage early intervention in cases of health risk and help to reduce the likelihood of developing chronic illness. More than half of those who used the health stations had not received a BP check in the past 12 months prior to screening; 14.3% of those assessed recorded high BP.
Prof Charlie Foster, Vhi’s Head of Population Health, said: “By providing
For more information visit: https://www1.vhi.ie/360health/ health-check
quick and easy access to health checks in workplaces and other sites around the country, we’re empowering members to identify and address health risks early on and help them to achieve better health outcomes. This is one of the many ways in which Vhi is driving innovation in the delivery of healthcare.”
BLOOD BIKES ON A ROLL AS PARTNERSHIP WITH CONTINENTAL TYRES CONTINUES
Blood Bikes Leinster, the east coast chapter of the Association of Blood Bikes, has renewed its partnership with Continental Tyres Ireland as support vehicle tyre partner, with a new set of UltraContact NXT tyres for one of their support vehicles, a specially liveried Mitsubishi Lancer at Heffernan Tyres in Kildare town.
Blood Bikes is a registered not-for-profit Irish charity, established by local volunteers, who look after the timely delivery of blood and associated blood products, human donor breast milk, cancer medication treatments and other time-sensitive material to hospitals and medical centres across the country.
Depending totally on public donations and corporate sponsorship, the service is run free of charge for the medical bodies, thanks to the legion of volunteers who give their time freely for this life-saving service. The Blood Bikes teams carry out this valuable service to hospitals ensuring that ambulances or Garda vehicles are not taken out of service and are kept where they are needed the most.
Fergus Lennon, Regional Co-ordinator of Blood Bikes Leinster, said: “When you spend the amount of time on the road that our volunteers do, you appreciate the value of premium tyres for providing high levels of safety and the longevity of the tyres themselves. Given the strong emphasis on sustainability from Continental’s NXT tyres, that really fits with our values as an organisation. They will keep our volunteers safe as they clock up the kilometres.”
Tom Dennigan of Continental Tyres Ireland said: "Blood Bike volunteers do some incredible work. Fergus recalled that when he was in the UK to collect a heart that could not be transported by aircraft, it had to be transported by car and ferry. Imagine driving that journey with such a precious lifegiving organ in your care.”
Continental is supplying tyres for use on Blood Bikes support vehicles, including a 4x4 model that enables the service to continue operating in all types of weather.
Fergus Lennon, Regional Co-ordinator of Blood Bikes Leinster, pictured with Tom Dennigan of Continental Tyres Ireland.
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT INSTITUTE OF IRELAND CALLS OUT FOR NEW MEMBERS!
The Emergency Management Institute of Ireland (EMII) is looking to expand its membership base and would like to hear from individuals engaged in emergency and crisis management within the Republic of Ireland.
The EMII was launched on 1 January 2018, and it currently has a membership base of more than 100 people who operate in the professional, technical, voluntary or academic areas of emergency management.
The EMII Board hosts regular emergency/crisis management events, seminars and site visits countrywide, and attracts high profile presenters to speak at these events, either in person at its base at Dublin City University Business School, or in a virtual setting.
These events are designed to develop knowledge, facilitate networking opportunities for members, and to achieve some of the key EMII objectives. The membership fee structure is designed to ensure the financial independence of the EMII, thereby enabling the Institute to host and support such events for members throughout the country.
This year’s AGM at DCU’s Business School on 24 May was preceded by a breakfast briefing to members on the ‘National Risk Assessment 2023’ by EMII members Prof Caroline McMullan (DCU Business School), Eileen Tully (Dept of Transport) and Dr Margaret Stanley (Office of
For further information and membership details visit https://emii.ie/
Emergency Planning). EMII Chair Sean Ward also appealed to all members to consider someone they may know who would be interested in making a presentation to the benefit of EMII members at future breakfast briefings.
Other events to have taken place this year included a site visit to the new National Train Control Centre at Heuston Station on 28 June, the Dublin Port Tunnel Live Training Exercise on 22 August, and a breakfast briefing on ‘Navigating Decision Making in a VUCA environment’ at DCU Business School on 27 September. The most recent outing was a cross-border visit on 18 October to the new Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) flagship training centre at Cookstown, which is in the final stage of construction.
MARITIME PARNTERNSHIP TO DELIVER NEW TRAINING COURSES IN 2025
The National Maritime College of Ireland (NMCI) and SeaBot Maritime (Ireland) will collaborate on integrating complex systems with specialised skills for the maritime workforce, with the delivery of training courses under this partnership scheduled to start in the first quarter of 2025.
Under the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between NMCI and Seabot Maritime, the partnership aims to position Ireland as a global leader in advanced maritime education and training.
SeaBot Maritime, based at the UK’s National Oceanography Centre, provides smart remote operations training in Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) operations. The company’s internationally recognised training programmes attract delegates from around the globe. The UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency also recognises SeaBot Maritime’s training, further solidifying their reputation in the industry.
Dr Paul Hegarty, Head of the National Maritime College of Ireland, said that the collaboration highlights the NMCI’s commitment to providing top-tier education that meets the evolving needs of the industry. “By combining our expertise with SeaBot’s innovative approach, we aim to empower professionals with the skills and insights necessary to thrive in the era of maritime autonomy.”
Gordon Meadow, CEO of SeaBot Maritime added: “Our partnership with NMCI represents a significant milestone in our mission to support the maritime industry’s adoption of advanced technologies.” For more information email training@seabotmaritime.com
Dr Paul Hegarty, Head of the National Maritime College of Ireland, pictured with Gordon Meadow, CEO of SeaBot Maritime, following the signing of the MoU in May.
FOR FREEDOM FOLLOWERS
Unicef Ireland Appeals For Donations To Gaza and Lebanon
UNICEF Ireland has launched an appeal for donations to help send lifesaving supplies to the children in Gaza and Lebanon, where more than one million homeless children now face the threat of disease across the conflict areas. In Gaza, children are dying in their thousands while in Lebanon, they fear the same catastrophic fate.
Up to 40,000 people have lost their lives in Gaza since the conflict started on 7 October 2023, while over 600 have so far died in Lebanon in just one week alone. UNICEF is on the ground providing lifesaving water, medical supplies and blankets, but claims that what children need most now is a ceasefire.
According to the aid agency, this violence is having a traumatic effect on the families that manage to survive. “However, bombs and bullets are only the start of their new terrifying reality. In Gaza, nine in every ten people have been forced from their homes, including almost one million children,” UNICEF notes on its website, which includes donation details.
“In Lebanon, in only a few short weeks, the number of internally displaced people has risen to at least 1.2 million, including 400,000 children. They are forced to live in tents, schools and makeshift shelters. Many have nothing more than the clothes on their backs to keep them warm.
“Hungry, thirsty and afraid, they will now have no option but to drink water contaminated with faeces and will almost certainly contract life threatening polio, cholera or diarrhoea. These children desperately need your help,” according to UNICEF.
Peter Power, Executive Director of UNICEF Ireland, recently reiterated that UNICEF is an independent, nonprofit organisation which is helping the children of Gaza, Lebanon and Israel in their new appeal.
UNICEF CONDEMNS ATTACKS
Speaking on the ‘Pat Kenny Show’ on Newstalk, he said that UNICEF has called for the release of hostages held by Hamas, contrary to the claims by the Israeli Ambassador to Ireland. Dana Erlich had claimed on the ‘Pat Kenny Show’ on Newstalk that UNICEF had never called for the release of Israeli hostages. However, the UNICEF Executive Director subsequently appeared on the Pat Kenny Show on Newstalk to “set the record straight”.
Ms Erlich was a guest on the show to mark the oneyear anniversary of the launch of Hamas’ attacks against
To donate to UNICEF visit www.unicef.ie/donate/gazalebanon-emergency/#1
her country. While discussing the situation, she claimed that neither the Red Cross nor UNICEF had called for the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas.
However, Peter Power denied the accusation and recounted statements made by UNICEF condemning both the abduction of hostages, as well as the attacks made on Israel by Hamas. Mr Power read a statement made by UNICEF two weeks after the attack. It said: “The killing, maiming and abduction of children constitute grave violations of children's rights, and UNICEF urgently appeals for the release of all hostages.” Mr Power said that “the language is extremely clear, its unequivocal, its unambiguous”.
He pointed out that the organisation’s mandate “extends right across the world”, adding that Israel had also committed breaches of international humanitarian law over the course of the conflict.
“It is a breach of international law to restrict aid to people in need, and that is happening in Gaza today, and we have called that out consistently,” he said. “We will also call that out, and we will do so without fear or favour, as we have done so over the past 12 months,” he said.
The organisation is currently focused on providing aid in Gaza and Lebanon. Peter Power described the situation on the ground in Gaza as “hell on earth”, adding that they’re now accepting donations to allow them to continue providing humanitarian aid in the region.
(Source: www.newstalk.com/news/)
Attacks in Gaza and Lebanon have forced millions from their homes.
Getting Humanitarian Aid Into Gaza
The Struggle Continues
Before 7 October 2023, over 80% of Gaza’s population relied on humanitarian aid. Now, a year into the deadly conflict, with over half a million facing “catastrophic” food insecurity, a 170% increase in malnutrition, a collapsing health system and over one million Palestinians in need of shelter kits before winter, getting aid in has never been more crucial, or challenging. Report by Christine Maguire.
It is almost impossible to get aid inside Gaza since the seizure by Israel and subsequent burning of the Rafah crossing on the Egyptian border in May 2024, according to a spokesperson for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).
“This was where the majority of aid came in and the only way for Palestinians to leave the Gaza strip,” Tomasso Della Longa told ‘Emergency Services Ireland’. He described a “nightmare” situation where the local people’s needs continue to grow heavily, day after day, but not the number of trucks with the necessary level of humanitarian aid.
“Food, water, medicine and everything needed to run a hospital, and medical post are now a matter of priority, together with fuel supplies,” Della Longa explained. “Without fuel, you don’t have hospitals, ambulances, refrigerators. You don’t have anything, because there is no electricity.”
Thousands of aid trucks are waiting to cross into Gaza, with the food inside spoiling as the threat of famine looms. Israel has been accused by UN officials of blocking aid and the EU’s foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, said it was “provoking famine” and using starvation as a weapon of war. The US Government’s development and refugee agencies both found Israel was deliberately blocking food and medicine deliveries in April.
After Israel’s High Court of Justice ordered the state to demonstrate it was meeting its legal obligations to provide enough humanitarian supplies to Gaza, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced “tactical pauses”
UN distributes food supplies to the local people.
in military operations near its Karem Shalom crossing. However, the UN’s World Food Programme (WFP) Director Cindy McCain said this “made no difference at all”.
A HOT WAR ZONE
“A tactical pause is not a ceasefire. This remains a hot war zone. No place is really safe in which to operate,” Jonathan Fowler, Senior Communications Manager with the UN Relief Works Agency’s (UNRWA), told ‘Emergency Services Ireland’. “
Meanwhile, Israel’s Co-ordination of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) agency boasted of the aid it allows into Gaza, reporting that 3,981 trucks entered in September, of which 1,533 were carrying aid, according to its data.
However, before 7 October 2023, an average of 200 aid trucks entered Gaza daily, along with 300 trucks containing imports like food and industrial materials. Aid agencies and UN officials say 500 to 600 trucks a day are needed to meet Gazans’ minimum needs.
Israeli authorities also require trucks to arrive half-full, to make
inspections easier, but “that means when we talk about numbers of trucks arriving, it’s not actually full trucks,” Fowler explained. “This has consequences down the line: a totally inadequate flow of humanitarian aid”.
“It’s like our colleagues in the Palestine Red Crescent (PRC) are always telling us, ‘We know exactly what to do to save lives and alleviate suffering, but to do that we don’t have enough aid, we don’t have enough access,’” Della Longa said, describing what’s coming in as “a drop in the ocean” and “a PR exercise.”
Efforts to airdrop aid are insufficient and have injured and even killed people, while the US’s ‘humanitarian pier’ has been marred with issues. Della Longa pointed out that while any aid is welcome, Rafah was “the heart of every humanitarian operation for the strip”, with a ready-to-go logistics pipeline. “It’s faster, more efficient,” he said. “And what you can bring with a parachute, you can bring it probably with a third of one truck.”
JOURNEY OF AN AID TRUCK
Aid goes through several Israeli checks before entering Gaza. This
“It is almost impossible to get aid inside Gaza since the seizure by Israel and subsequent burning of the Rafah crossing on the Egyptian border in May 2024” – Tommaso Della Longa, spokesperson for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC)
includes aid being taken off trucks twice and placed on other trucks to be taken to warehouses in the strip, over half of which are no longer operational after being damaged in the conflict.
Israel bans “dual use” items, which it says can be used by Hamas to make weapons, including solar panels and water purification and telecommunications equipment.
Palestine refugees in the Gaza strip relies heavily on UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA).
This is “extremely damaging,” Fowler said. “Because humanitarians need proper communications equipment to move around safely.”
Once inside Gaza, ever-shrinking ‘humanitarian zones’ limit NGOs’ abilities to access and store the aid. There are logistical challenges involved in navigating through destroyed roads and multiple checkpoints, and needing to communicate with the IDF, Hamas and other fighters to avoid coming under fire.
Fowler reports “huge issues with denials of permissions from the Israeli authorities to move around safely,” adding: “It’s not been uncommon for 50% of requested aid missions to be denied”.
According to the OCHA, Israeli authorities denied almost twice the number of missions and movement requests in Gaza in August compared to July, and despite an increase in planned movements submitted, facilitated missions in southern Gaza dropped by 28%. In northern Gaza, there was a 10% increase in facilitated aid missions, but the number of denials increased by 140%.
Israel, which accused some of the agency’s employees of being involved in the 7 October Hamas attack, lays blame on the UN and humanitarian agencies responsible for distributing aid in Gaza. On 25 June, COGAT accused the WFP of a “lack of motivation”.
This narrative “misrepresents the overall problem,” Fowler said.
“A tactical pause is not a ceasefire. This remains a hot war zone. No place is really safe in which to operate” – Jonathan Fowler, Senior Communications Manager with UNRWA.
Explaining that the lack of fuel, the destruction and the fact that people who were displaced to Rafah have been forced to disperse again to “other places which are not necessarily easy to supply” all “come together to make the operating environment in an active war zone extremely complicated.”
DEADLY DELIVERIES
UNRWA has experienced the “highest death toll in the history of the UN for aid workers” in Gaza this year, Fowler said. “We’ve lost 214 of our staff. It’s unprecedented.”
Della Longa has reported that 21 PRC members have also been killed while working in Gaza since October 2023. “We start our day talking with PRC colleagues in Ramallah, and the first question is, ‘Did we lose someone?’ It’s shocking because the Red Cross and Red Crescent should be protected,” he added.
The Israeli drone strike that killed seven World Central Kitchen aid workers in April illustrated that not even clearly marked humanitarian groups are safe. In August, the WFP, citing safety concerns, suspended employee movement in Gaza after its vehicle was “directly struck by gunfire” near a checkpoint, despite “receiving multiple clearances by Israeli authorities”.
ABSOLUTE DESPERATION
In “absolute desperation”, Gazans have also engaged in “self-distribution” of aid. “Jumping convoys, taking food aid, but in many cases, eating it on the spot,” Fowler said. After the younger
Gaza left in ruins with children left homeless.
Louth Meath Education and Training Board (LMETB) stands tall as the largest education and training provider in the Northeast region. As one of the largest ETBs in the country, it employs over 2,500 staff and provides education to over 30,000 students and learners annually across Primary, Post Primary and Further Education and Training (FET). Its diverse FET provision offers full-time and part-time education and training opportunities, both accredited and non-accredited, for school leavers and adult learners across a variety of centres, colleges and outreach locations across Louth and Meath.
LMETB is ideally positioned, in a strategically important economic area, to be the education and training provider of choice for workforce upskilling. Part-time programmes to support local employees in Louth and Meath are provided through the national SOLAS- funded Skills to Advance Initiative. Certified training can be provided in soft skills development such as customer service, as well as in technical, practical and ICT skills. Many courses are highly subsidised and offered at flexible times and locations, whether that be in the workplace, online or in an LMETB FET Centre.
Through its Advanced Manufacturing Training Centre of Excellence, LMETB is a leading provider of training programmes in new and emerging technologies for use in industry.
A subsidised training programme has been developed in association with Harcourt Technologies Ltd. to upskill participants on the fundamentals of 3D construction printing, using LMETB’s own 3D concrete printer. This hands-on experiential training covers 3DCP fundamentals to include material importance, printing processes, global applications, business potential, design principles and sustainability implications and is available also under LMETB’s Skills to Advance Initiative.
LMETB currently oversees €450 million worth of Capital Projects across its administrative buildings, schools and centres. It plays a strategic role in Estates Management and aims to modernise facilities, optimise space utilisation, create inclusive, accessible environments that foster innovation and learning and adapt to changing educational demands. Climate and Sustainability is a key focus for LMETB and implementing energy-efficient practices, reducing the environmental impact of buildings, and promoting sustainable construction methods are integral to its operations.
Arna chomhchistiú ag Rialtas na hÉireann agus ag an Aontas Eorpach Co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union
LMETB is proud to have a diverse and inclusive workforce. It offers a wide range of employment opportunities to suit school leavers, college graduates and professionals of all levels of skills and experience. With options available for career progression and professional development, employees can help shape the future of education and training in the region.
For more information on LMETB’s FET provision, see www.lmetb.ie/fet or contact LMETB’s Adult Education Guidance Service on 1800 991 898 or email adultguidance@lmetb.ie.
For more information on Careers with LMETB, see http://careers. lmetb.ie or contact LMETB Recruitment at 046 906 8200 or email recruitment@lmetb.ie
men finish taking items, “the weaker people would come and be scrambling around in the dirt to try to get a bit of flour, broken biscuits and these kinds of things,” he explained. “[An] absolutely apocalyptic vision.”
In the case of the February ‘flour massacre’, 118 were killed when Israel opened fire on Palestinians surging around an aid truck. Fowler also described a recent spike in criminality, as gangs involved in cigarette smuggling have been attacking convoys in search of cigarettes – which are now worth €18 each – and are stealing humanitarian aid in the process.
“The situation is getting worse every other day. Probably before, we were able to say every other week, or even month, now it is really every other day; because when you don’t have any more medicine, clean water, food, shelter, then it’s unbearable,” Della Longa said.
“After many months of speaking about this nightmare, I don’t even have any more words to explain it because it’s something that to me, it’s unbelievable…unbearable.”
Irish Government’s Aid to Palestine
Ireland has long worked to reduce the humanitarian needs of the people in Palestine, focusing on education, human rights and governance. It has provided €40m in humanitarian assistance in response to the suffering caused by the conflict in Gaza since October 2023, including €20m million to UNRWA after other countries cut its funding.
Through its Rapid Response Initiative, Ireland has provided over 116 tonnes of emergency items to the Gaza strip. “This included 50 tonnes in December 2023, and 66 tonnes in March 2024, with items such as tents, tarpaulins, blankets, water tanks, kitchen sets and hygiene kits,” a spokesperson from the Department of Foreign Affairs told ‘Emergency Services Ireland’.
All the items have now reached Gaza – the first consignment was distributed in December 2023 and January 2024, while the second consignment has been distributed by the Catholic Relief Services.
The spokesperson explained that most of the aid is channeled through funding to aid organisations on the ground, including the IFRC, UNRWA, the WFP the UN OCHA Occupied Palestinian Territories Humanitarian Fund and the World Health Organisation (WHO).
Ireland’s Recognition of Palestine
Ireland’s recognition of Palestine in May (alongside Spain and Norway) sparked outrage from Israel. Its public broadcaster Kann reported that Israel would no longer facilitate diplomats of these countries to travel into Gaza or the West Bank and would isolate them from briefings and requests.
“There has been no discernable increase in access difficulties since Ireland’s recognition of the State of Palestine. However, the access for aid generally continues to pose massive challenges for aid agencies,” Trócaire Communications Officer David O’Hare told ‘Emergency Services Ireland’.
WHO personnel in the ruins of the Al-Shifa Hospital in April.
GAZA EMERGENCY: REGIONAL
HELP MSF PROVIDE URGENT SURGICAL AND MEDICAL ASSISTANCE IN GAZA AND THE WEST BANK
“People in Gaza cannot endure any more suffering. They have lost all sense of safety, whether from the constant threat of being killed by bombs at night or the uncertainty of finding their next meal or drink of water. The absence of a significant humanitarian response and the lack of supplies in Gaza is truly horrific. It is becoming more challenging to treat the wounded, to bring in medical supplies.
Every evening, I say goodbye to my Palestinian colleagues. Each new day, I am afraid I won’t see them at the morning meeting.”
Lisa Macheiner, MSF project coordinator in Gaza.
In Gaza, MSF surgeons, doctors and nurses provide emergency surgeries, wound treatment, medical and maternity care in overcrowded hospitals, health facilities and clinics. We have sent hundreds of tonnes of medical supplies into Gaza, but so much more is needed. In the West Bank we provide medical care and mental health support in hospitals and through mobile clinics in response to an increase in violence and movement restrictions. Please support our work in Gaza and the West Bank.
Yes, I want to help by giving € to help fund Médecins Sans Frontières’ life-saving work.
Please make your cheque payable to Médecins Sans Frontières Ireland. Please debit my MasterCard/Visa (delete where appropriate)
Please provide phone/email details below if you would like to be contacted about our work:
MSF is an independent, neutral, impartial medical organisation dedicated to providing lifesaving healthcare to people affected by conflict, epidemics and disasters. The Gaza Emergency Regional Fund also allows for MSF to scale up medical activities in the wider region if medical activities connected to the Gaza conflict are required.
Please donate today to support our emergency medical teams.
€28 could provide antibiotics to prevent infections in 2 patients after surgery
€56 could provide an emergency kit to dress 15 wounds
€146 could provide an oxygen kit with concentrated cylinders, masks and tubing
€476 could provide a sterilised surgical kit to an MSF surgical team
See msf.ie/privacy for details on how we use your data
Registered Number 464033 Charity Number CHY 18196
A young child is carried into the MSF clinic in Rafah. Credit: MSF
The Fight Against Gender-Based Violence In Ireland's Defence Forces
The revelation that 68 serving Defence Forces members have convictions or are before the courts is the latest scandal to rock Óglaigh na hÉireann. Now with a long-awaited tribunal and an independent review by a senior barrister, there is both hope and scepticism that systemic issues can be addressed some 24 years after accounts of sexism and violence were first reported. Report by Christine Maguire.
Aculture of discrimination, bullying, sexual assault and harassment within Ireland’s Defence Forces (DF) was revealed over two decades ago by then Army Captain Tom Clonan – now an Independent Senator – as part of his PhD thesis in 2000.
“The initial reaction from military authorities was one of absolute rejection and denial,” Clonan told ‘Emergency Services Ireland’. “They made no attempts to address the substance of the findings”, which were “fully vindicated” in a subsequent independent inquiry.
More than two decades later, the Women of Honour (WoH) came forward with their own experiences of sexual harassment and bullying within the military, and how complaints were covered up and victims punished for speaking out, in what Clonan called a “game changer.”
However, retired Army Captain and WoH spokesperson Diane Byrne questions whether there “really is the appetite to do what’s needed” to address these issues.
“[When] the Women of Honour came out, they said, ‘Oh, my God, isn't this absolutely dreadful?’ Tom Clonan’s thesis report over 20 years old, and the same thing was said then….and ‘Oh, let's bury that, let's stop looking,’” she told ‘Emergency Services Ireland’
INDEPENDENT REVIEW GROUP REPORT
The 2023 report from the Independent Review Group (IRG), which was established in response to the WOH’s revelations, found that “at best, the Defence Forces barely tolerates women and, at its worst, verbally, physically, sexually and psychologically abuses” female members.
It detailed out-of-date HR practices, the view that women are of a lower status and that there is “no point” complaining. It recommended establishing an oversight committee and a statutory inquiry and removing complaint management from officers.
The findings “paint a very worrying picture of the culture of the organisation,” Clonan said, adding: “A lot of young soldiers, sailors and air crew over that 20-year period…were exposed to harm, life-limiting and life-altering harm, unnecessarily. It could have been avoided, could have been prevented.”
SUMMER OF SCANDAL
Fifteen months later, in June 2024, Army private Cathal Crotty received a suspended sentence for beating Natasha O’Brien unconscious in an attack that he boasted about on social media.
O’Brien’s willingness to go public triggered protests and led to his eventual dismissal from the DF. Tánaiste and Defence Minister Micheál Martin then called for a review of serving members charged with offences which revealed that in the last three years, 68 have been
convicted or are before the courts.
“Why did it take that for them to suddenly have a report?” Byrne asked. “We've laid this out on the table to them many times. I've explained issues of civilian personnel
who are, at this very moment, being terrorised by members of the Defense Forces, and they're well aware of this.”
Just two other DF members have been dismissed over domestic, sexual or gender-based violence since 2016. Other perpetrators are still serving, including a Naval Service officer –and heavyweight boxer – who in 2023 pled guilty to an assault on his ex-girlfriend, which included 5-10 punches to the head. The DF said in June that “an administrative process is ongoing” in his case, almost a year after his conviction.
Of the 68 cases, some of which Martin described as “very grave”, five relate to sexual assault, approximately six concern domestic incidents or barring orders, and around 24 relate to assault.
INDEPENDENT REVIEW
Martin has appointed senior barrister Peter Ward to examine how the DF deals with members with criminal convictions. Citing “gross mistrust” in the independent of such reviews, Byrne noted: “A lack of transparency, countless examples of cover-ups, victim blaming, numerous past
Just
two other DF members have been dismissed over domestic, sexual or gender-based violence since 2016. Other perpetrators are still serving, including a Naval Service officer – and heavyweight boxer
– who in 2023 pled guilty to an assault on his ex-girlfriend, which included 5-10 punches to the head.
Diane Byrne questions whether there “really is the appetite to do what’s needed” to address these issues.
reviews which have achieved very little, and a deliberate siloed approach to problems: these all directly impact the faith held by the general public.”
She believes the review should also look at how the DF deals with accusations and complaints made about its members, not just incidents that have made it to court and resulted in convictions.
“How many people have tried to fight within the system and not gotten anywhere because there wasn't enough proof? How many do the Defence Forces know about?” Byrne said. “I have people that I've sat with, meeting the Defence Forces, and they can’t get anywhere.”
Clonan questioned the scope of the review, which he described as a “deep dive” into the symptoms of a wider issue. He said that the broader, causal factors need to be addressed, adding that a whole-of-organisation review is needed.
He pointed to the External Oversight Body – established to oversee the implementation of the IRG recommendations – and the appointment of a civilian head of strategic HR last year as things to “bring
the Defence Forces into the 21st century”.
Martin also instructed the Defence Forces’ Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Seán Clancy to place members accused of sexual assault or rape on ‘local leave’ until their case is complete. Clancy agreed such individuals “have no place in our ranks” and called on members to let this be “a wake-up call for us all.”
CHANGING A TOXIC CULTURE
However, Byrne pointed out that despite previous reviews and reports, “We're still not addressing why are we in this position? How are these people getting away with doing these things?”
She highlighted “an element of learnt behaviour in an organisation that has its own rules, its own laws, its own ability to make these things go away or address them if they really want to.” She said that even the order that the [DF’s] core values are listed in, “loyalty to the organisation and to your commanding officers is way above moral obligation”.
“One of the dynamics that the IRG identified as a recurring feature of the toxic culture was one of retaliation, reprisal,” said Clonan, who faced what
Former Army captain and now Independent Senator Tom Clonan described the independent review as a "deep dive" into the symptoms of a wider issue.
Transparency International Ireland described as “textbook whistleblower reprisal” after publishing his findings. “I think that is something that the Defenve Forces community, both retired and serving, really need to think about” he commented.
“Victims are seen as the problem and moved away or pushed into silence or forced into leaving,” Byrne explained. The fear of reprisal can prevent them from coming forward.
The review should look at how the DF deals with accusations and complaints made about its members, not just incidents that have made it to court and resulted in convictions, claims Diane Byrne.
She spoke of a commonly held belief: “Don’t get involved because your own career will suffer, and they will get you eventually and you will never get ahead if you speak out.”
She also criticised the lack of options to pursue complaints, saying that the DF Personal Support Service “wear uniforms, so they’re ranked” and are paid by the department. “There’s no external avenues we can go to because they have their own military police, their own court.”
INTERNALISED PROCEDURES
Byrne also noted people from other emergency services, “the prison service, fire service [and] Guards” have come to WOH because “they can relate to what we’re saying, and they can’t get anywhere because it’s all internalised.”
These jobs are “a vocation, you do it because you believe in being part of something bigger, you believe in right and wrong,” she said. “But when you take it indoors, it’s totally different,” especially in male-dominated environments where she said people will “put up with things that in a more gender-balanced environment would be considered unacceptable.”
DEFENCE FORCES CHIEF WELCOMES INDEPENDENT REVIEW
Defence Forces Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Seán Clancy has welcomed the appointment of Peter Ward SC to examine administration of cases involving DF personnel convicted of criminal offences.
“Senior Counsel’s recommendations on the management of serving personnel, who are before the civilian courts or have received a conviction, will offer clarity on how the Defence Forces can handle cases involving these personnel. The appointment will also provide independent and comprehensive guidance to improve and strengthen the current regulatory framework.
“Such individuals have no place in our ranks. The Defence Forces are committed to the highest standards of conduct and integrity. My commitment to these standards has not waned. My actions have been guided by our dedication to transparency and accountability.
“We owe it to the bravery of individuals like Natasha O’Brien, to those impacted within our own organisation and to the values we stand for to ensure that no one within the Defence Forces can avoid the consequences of their actions.
“This organisation is transforming into a modern Defence Force where our organisational culture is underpinned by dignity, equality and mutual respect. We must not let the actions of a few overshadow the dedicated service of the many.”
“Until they put systems in place where trust can be gotten or kept, it's gonna be very hard for anyone across any of the emergency services.”
In June, a tribunal of enquiry led by Justice Ann Power was established to examine the DF’s complaints process. “It took three years of banging on tables for us to get a tribunal, and we’re still not where we must be, we still have chunks left out of the terms of reference,” Byrne said.
She explained the tribunal raised several “red flags” including fears that it may not be “victim-centric” or support those reliving trauma. “We are working hard to ensure it is safe and effective,” she added.
LOOKING TO THE FUTURE
It remains to be seen whether these latest steps to correct issues within the DF will result in adequate change. “Unless we take a holistic approach to this – we look at everything – we’re just doing parts of a jigsaw puzzle,” Byrne said, adding: “We’re not getting the full picture. It’s very hard to understand how you fix something if you don’t understand it.”
The “people who have thrived in the culture that has allowed these things to happen” can’t fix it, she said. “They really have to look at the very, very top level and understand how their behaviour is actually affecting people.”
Clonan expressed confidence in the majority of the DF, adding that they needed leadership. He called for the “very vocal” cohort within the forces who “have this toxic masculinity going on, they’re misogynistic” to be “drowned out by the voices of reason.”
“This is an opportunity,” he added. “I think this is going to be a period of significant growth and opportunity for the Defense Forces, notwithstanding the current recruitment and retention crisis.”
DF INITIATIVES TO CHANGE “NEGATIVE ASPECTS” OF ITS CULTURE
Responding to the internal cultural issues raised by the IRG report, initiatives include:
• Appointment of a civilian Head of Strategic Human Resources and Head of Transformation to the Defence Forces Board.
• An external review of the Defence Forces internal complaints procedure has been undertaken with the next step to redesign the process imminent.
• All complaints of alleged sexual offences in the State now passed directly to An Garda Síochána for investigation.
• Mandatory Sexual Ethics and Responsible Relationship workshops in co-operation with UCC and the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre.
• Mandatory Gender Diversity and Unconscious Bias training to all our people.
Response to the Challenge of a Workplace – Revisited
Upon hearing about the alleged cases brought to light by ‘The Women of Honour’ on RTÉ, Ireland’s first Ombudsman for the Defence Forces, Paulyn Marrinan Quinn, writes that it greatly upset and concerned her to think that female members had suffered these experiences – at all – and that such alleged wrongdoings were not made known to her under her ‘watch’.
When I was appointed Ireland’s first Ombudsman for the Defence Forces in September 2005, under the provisions of the Ombudsman (Defence Forces) Act 2004, for which there had been widespread support as it made its way through the Dail, it was a ‘good news story’.
Ireland was now taking a lead in overseeing fair procedures, accountability, and the much-needed transparency to win the members ‘essential trust and confidence in the complaint handling processes and procedures to protect them from actions that adversely affected them.
The legislation was described as ‘robust’ and received a lot of media coverage – The ODF was “a first” in this part of the world with only Norway, Germany and Canada having a designated Military Ombudsman. Even before I had office premises, there were requests from a range of people who wanted to discuss the scope and powers of this new
Members of ‘Women of Honour’ (l-r): Honor Murphy, Yvonne O Rourke, Diane Byrne and Karina Molloy pictured outside Government Buildings on 16 January 2024. They had expressed “disappointment” that they were not shown terms of reference for the probe into the Defence Forces before they were signed off by Cabinet (Pic: Collins Photos)
Office with what was described as “groundbreaking legislation”.
Some EU accession States and others showed interest; South Korea’s Embassy visited with their National Ombudsman; South Africa sent a delegation including their Chief of Defence Staff. Their Minister of Defence had requested me to review their draft Military Ombudsman legislation in advance of our meeting.
We were requested to provide capacity building for many States by DCAF (then described as the ‘Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces’). We were requested to join the OSCE/ODIHR Expert Group tasked to draw up the ‘Handbook on Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms of Armed Forces Personnel’ to be launched in 2008, as the concept of the ‘Citizen in Uniform’ was emerging and gaining respect.
When I had applied for the job, the research literature referred to an Office of independent oversight of military administrative matters as a ‘democratic corrective,’ some went further describing it as a ‘democratic imperative’.
HOPE OF TRANSPARENCY
To be part of this groundbreaking initiative was an honour because the establishment of the Office of Ombudsman held out hope for transparency, in real terms, in the treatment of members of the Defence Forces.
It aimed to improve the efficiency and fairness of the existing Redress of Wrongs (RoW) system by providing members with a new right to an appeal, from a finding by the Chief of Staff in their complaints, to an Office independent of the Chain of Command and the Department of Defence.
Whereas we can endeavour to avoid grounds for complaints arising, we know that, through human error, maladministration may arise, but also that more serious breaches of codes of conduct and undesirable practices may occur.
Human nature being what it is, we may be unable to prevent these entirely, but it is well within our power to ensure that accessible and effective complaint handling processes are in place to shine an independent light on the root causes, identify the adverse effects
The extent of harassment, bullying, discrimination, and sexual harassment had first been identified by Senator Dr Tom Clonan in his PhD research work: ‘Women in Combat: The Status and Roles Assigned Female Personnel in the Permanent Defence Forces’ when he had completed his Doctorate in DCU in 2000.
on the victims, provide support, and call the perpetrators to account in a timely manner. This cannot be overstated: robust powers of oversight prevent any lapse or detour around this commitment.
‘HOW
COULD THIS HAVE ARISEN?’
I served as ODF from 2005 to 2012, during which time I published six Annual Reports. In my last Report, submitted in 2011, it can be seen that – whereas there were four complaints under the ‘inappropriate behaviour or bullying’ category – there were no cases of ‘alleged sexual assault or sexual harassment’.
It, therefore, came as a cause of concern and upset to me to hear about the alleged cases first brought to light by the ‘Women of Honour ‘on RTÉ Radio in October 2021. I would loathe to think that women members were subjected to such experiences
‘under my watch,’ as it were, or at all. When the Report from the Independent Review Group was published in 2023, with troubling accounts of improper treatment of members of the Defence Forces, my first reaction was disbelief: how could this have arisen when so much work went into creating structures to protect members from any form of mistreatment? I am sure that many people have asked the same question.
It may be helpful to take a ‘lookback’ at the relevant sequence of events in the work done to protect and preserve standards of best practice, in support of nurturing an obligatory safe working environment for members of our Defence Forces.
CONTINUOUS EXTERNAL REVIEW
The initial Independent Monitoring Group (IMG), chaired by the late Dr Eileen Doyle, was established in
UPMC IN IRELAND
Now with four hospitals, two UPMC Hillman Cancer Centres, six UPMC Sports Medicine clinics, and an outpatient centre, UPMC is expanding its services in Ireland to establish itself as a provider of exceptional patient-focused healthcare.
UPMC also works closely with public partners to ensure all patients have equal access to high-quality healthcare, delivered in a timely fashion.
Our locations include:
• Hospitals
UPMC Sports Surgery Clinic Santry
UPMC Aut Even Hospital Kilkenny
UPMC Whitfield Hospital Waterford
UPMC Kildare Hospital Clane
• UPMC Sports Medicine Clinics
TUS Moylish - Limerick
UCC Mardyke Arena - Cork
TUS Thurles - Tipperary
SETU Arena - Waterford
• UPMC Hillman Cancer Centres
UPMC Whitfield Hospital
Bon Secours Radiotherapy Cork in Partnership with UPMC Hillman Cancer Centre
• UPMC Institute for Health - Mayo
• UPMC Global Technology Operations
Centre (GTOC) - Kilkenny
• UPMC Outreach Centre - Carlow
May 2002, by then Minister for Defence, Michael Smith, to oversee the implementation of recommendations arising from her preliminary findings (in 2001) on the extent of harassment, bullying, discrimination, and sexual harassment within the Defence Forces.
This had first been identified by Senator Dr Tom Clonan in his PhD research work: ‘Women in Combat: The Status and Roles Assigned Female Personnel in the Permanent Defence Forces’ when he had completed his Doctorate in DCU in 2000.
Having produced Reports since 2001, covering ‘Dignity at Work’, ‘The Challenge of a Workplace –Bullying, Discrimination, and Sexual Harassment’ that had recommended continuous external review, the IMG published its first review Report ‘Response to the Challenge of a Workplace’ in September 2004, and its second Report in December 2008.
The second Report recommended a further review of progress before the end of 2013, in order not only to report on progress, since the IMG’s second Report in 2008, but to take account of any relevant developments within the Defence Forces and, most significantly, developments in employment law and practice and make recommendations as appropriate.
This Review’s Terms of Reference covered, among other things, the extent to which the recommendations of the IMG in 2008 had been implemented. It examined all relevant Reports, documents and Instructions within the Defence Forces since 2008, and identified evidence of best practice by exploring the management of policies, procedures, programmes, levels of action and evaluation.
It also consulted key personnel with specific roles, and, where appropriate, established new Working Groups to examine specific issues and/or consulted with individuals or existing Working Groups; deciding on necessary research to inform any further recommendations that might be advisable.
A BLUEPRINT FOR PROGRESS
The composition of this IMG aimed to secure ‘a comprehensive corporate memory and knowledge,’ along with experience from continual interaction with the Defence Forces. Objectively, this was a ‘blueprint’ for progress.
To avoid losing any of the momentum and progress achieved, and with an eye to continuity, the IMG recommended strategic succession planning in relation to key posts in the Human Resources Branch, Training and Education Branch, and the Personnel Support Service based on a minimum of three years in the post.
To this end, the 2014 IMG recommended the establishment of an Implementation Group comprising personnel from the Department of Defence and the Defence Forces to develop and manage an implementation plan for the recommendations made in the Report.
To ensure continued effectiveness, the IMG recommended that the Implementation Group should have prepared a full plan within three months of the publication of the 2014 Report, and the Group should formally report to the Strategic Management Committee (SMC) every six months.
The IMG also recommended the establishment of an Oversight Group comprising senior personnel from the Defence Forces, Department of Defence, RACO and
PDFORRA to monitor progress around ‘Dignity at Work.’ The Implementation Group’s six-monthly Reports should be presented to the Oversight Group before these were submitted to the SMC.
In its wisdom, the 2014 IMG also recommended that a further independently chaired Review of progress in the context of workplace dignity, bullying, harassment, sexual harassment, and discrimination in the Defence Forces be conducted within a period of 60 months from the publication of the IMG Report.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR – Paulyn
Barrister Paulyn Marrinan Quinn was born in Belfast and grew up in London. A member of the Bar on both islands, Paulyn gained her reputation as a champion for widening access to justice through her work as an inaugural Ombudsman on two occasions; her pioneering efforts to provide a more expeditious and less arduous route to a fair deal are a matter of public record.
As the first Insurance Ombudsman of Ireland (1992-1998) Paulyn’s Office provided a new, and long-overdue, option for those in dispute with their insurance providers. She was a founding member of the British and Irish Ombudsman Association in 1994, serving on its first sub-committee to establish ‘Standards of Best Practice for Offices of Ombudsman’.
In 2005, she was appointed the founding Ombudsman for Ireland’s Defence Forces. Her growing interest in the potential of the Office of Military Ombudsman drew her to work with the OSCE (Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe) and DCAF (the Geneva Centre for Democratic Control of Armed Forces established in 2000) She assisted in capacity-building for States in transition to democracy and addressed related issues such as civilian oversight of military administrative matters and the protection of human rights of Armed Forces personnel through ICOAF of which she was a founding member.
Marrinan Quinn, SC
This was an intelligent, progressive approach designed to copper-fasten the advances made, curtail risks by vigilant monitoring, keep the internal Defence Forces Regulations and Administrative Instructions updated, relevant, and synchronised, and avoid deviation from the objectives of the Dignity in the Workplace Charter. Unfortunately, it appears that this blueprint – supported by research endorsing the importance of corporate memory and succession planning in an organisation, appears not to have been followed.
MISOGYNY
KNOWS NO BORDERS
Misogyny is rife and knows no borders. Research suggests that a place of ‘secrecy’ yields cover and provides fertile ground for ‘bullying.’ None of us would rush to disagree with this. However, in a ‘chain of command’ work structure – one that depends on loyalty and camaraderie – it is more difficult to make a complaint, not just out of fear of reprisal, but from an inner reluctance ‘to go against the grain.’ That may be a deep fear. However, the greatest harm arises for a victim when they cannot seek help through an independent Complaints Process – out of fear of reprisal, or in circumstances where there is no Complaints Procedure to which they can turn. In 2005, the Defence Forces invested expertise, time, and work in implementing a complaints structure
supported by robust legislation.
Earlier this year, the Government established a Tribunal of Inquiry to examine the handling of bullying, harassment, and sexual assault allegations in the Defence Forces and the effectiveness of the complaints processes in respect of workplace incidents.
Clearly, the IMG Blueprint was not followed. Why not? What happened? This question needs to be asked (and answered) otherwise the work of the high-level Tribunal, Reviews, and Recommendations might follow the same path.
DRIVING OPERATIONAL ALPHA
Leveraging our innovative technology and scalable solutions can significantly reduce costs and enhance operational efficiencies –helping you remain competitive in the drive for Operational Alpha®. For more information, visit northerntrust.com or contact:
Melíosa O’Caoimh Country Head, Ireland mo33@ntrs.com +353 1 542 2373
This heart-thumping moment of pride, brought to you by a timely intervention from our 24/7 Urgent Cardiac Care service.
Irish-US Partnership Aims To Improve Access To Defibs In Ireland
OxygenCare, a leading provider of medical equipment and solutions in Ireland, has signed a new partnership with Defibtech, the US manufacturer of resuscitation devices, to improve the availability of rescue-ready defibrillators in Ireland in a bid to save more lives.
Cardiovascular disease remains a leading cause of death in Ireland, with at least 9,000 deaths and 25,000 hospital admissions each year according to the HSE. Therefore, the availability of functional defibrillators is crucial, and inadequate maintenance has rendered many devices non-functional, exacerbating the issue.
Conrad Wynne, Senior Product Specialist of Resuscitation at OxygenCare, said: “This partnership with Defibtech not only enhances our critical care offering but enables us to help ensure that AEDs across Ireland are both available and functional when people need them. Emergency situations arise all the time and every second counts in these situations, so having operational, lifesaving technology is crucial.
“As a leading provider of emergency and resuscitation equipment, OxygenCare has extensive experience and a long-standing reputation in the Irish healthcare industry. The addition of Defibtech’s Lifeline AED greatly enhances our existing portfolio.”
USER-FRIENDLY PRODUCTS
Defibtech, a long-standing American manufacturer in medical technology, is dedicated to crafting dependable, affordable, and user-friendly products, empowering communities globally to respond to sudden cardiac arrest.
Joseph Mullally, Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations, said that partnering with OxygenCare was a natural fit for Defibtech. “We have a shared mission to provide emergency medical technology and spread awareness which can save lives. We recognise that the true impact of our work lies not only in the accessibility of our products but also through knowledge and skills.”
the tools, knowledge and confidence to act decisively in the face of cardiac emergencies.”
About OxygenCare: The family-owned business with over 50 years supporting healthcare throughout Ireland is one of the main medical suppliers in the areas of anaesthesia, monitoring, ventilation, infant care equipment, respiratory therapy, emergency equipment including defibrillators and suction oxygen therapy equipment, ultrasound and digital healthcare solutions.
About Defibtech: Defibtech designs and manufactures resuscitation devices including AEDs, mechanical chest compressors and related accessories. for public safety and healthcare providers. With more than 450,000 AED units shipped worldwide, it has won numerous awards for its record of innovative product designs, revenue growth, and commitment to quality and service excellence. Built to exacting medical standards, as well as to US military specifications, Defibtech's Lifeline AEDs are lightweight, robust, dust protected, spray and water resistant, and meet ‘shock and dro’ specifications for use in tough environments.
Mullally added: “By combining our defibrillator products with support and service from OxygenCare we are equipping organisations and communities across Ireland with Conrad Wynne, Senior Product Specialist, Resuscitation, Oxygencare
HEROIC RESCUERS RECEIVE WATER SAFETY AWARDS
A total of 19 lives were saved from drowning by 32 heroic rescuers, which included several members of An Garda Síochana, from all parts of the country who received due recognition at Water Safety Ireland’s National Annual Awards Ceremony for 2024 in Dublin Castle’s Hibernia Conference Centre in early October.
Each year Water Safety Ireland’s National Awards Ceremony honours those people who have saved a life from drowning, as well as individuals who have made a significant contribution to drowning prevention.
A number of Gardaí joined forces with Water Safety Ireland volunteers and members of the general public in Dublin Castle on 3 October to receive their ‘Seiko Just in Time’ and rescue appreciation awards for saving 19 lives from drowning across 16 different incidents in recent years.
On making the presentations to the 32 recipients, Anne Rabbitte TD, Minister of State at the Department of Health and the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, paid tribute to “the courageous and deserving recipients” at the awards ceremony.
She commended the “valiant efforts of these individuals who saved others from drowning” and acknowledged the “ongoing work of volunteers from Water Safety Ireland who teach swimming and water rescue skills” throughout the country each year.
LONGSTANDING VOLUNTEERS
The other recipients to receive awards included Water Safety Ireland’s 136 volunteers who were presented with Long-Service Volunteer Awards –recognising a combined total of 2,535 years of personal voluntary service teaching swimming, water rescue and survival skills in communities nationwide. “That is a remarkable achievement, and I commend every volunteer who devotes their spare time to making our waters safer,” Minister Rabbitte noted.
Water Safety Ireland’s CEO Joanne Walsh stated: “Safety is a small investment required for the delivery of a rich future, and in order to make this happen we need everyone to be water safety aware and water safety conscious. Drownings can happen quickly and silently but with the right knowledge, skills and attitudes everyone can avoid the hazards and take responsibility for their own safety.”
For the full list of award recipients visit https://watersafety.ie/ national-awards-ceremony/
GARDAÍ COME OUT IN FORCE TO RECEIVE WATER SAFETY AWARDS! Recognised for their courageous rescue interventions, the following Gardaí were presented with SEIKO Just in Time (JIT) and Rescue Appreciation (Res App) Awards by Minister Anne Rabbitte, pictured alongside Supt Brian Halligan, Dun Laoghaire Garda Station:
1. Garda Peter McGee (JIT) –Donegal
On Tuesday 30 November 2021, Garda Peter McGee observed a female in distress in the water at Port Bridge, Letterkenny. Without hesitation, he entered the water and swam towards her. The water was quite deep, the tide was coming in and the current was strong, but he managed to grab onto the woman and bring her towards the riverbank. He held on to the wall of one of the arches of the bridge until a ringbuoy was thrown to him, which he used to bring the woman back to the edge and onto the embankment to safety. She was taken to hospital where she made a full recovery.
On Sunday 11 August 2024, Gardaí Sonia Buggy, Joshua Lancaster, Stephen Murray, Senan Farrell and Lorcan Cowen arrived at an incident in the River Liffey, near Memorial Bridge. A man was being quickly carried downstream by a strong current. Gardaí Murray, Lancaster and Cowen grabbed some ringbuoys and attempted to intercept him as he was being brought down the river by the current.
Garda Sonia Buggy went down a ladder and entered the water. At this point the male had submerged under the water numerous times and was exhausted from trying to stay afloat. The man grabbed hold of the ringbuoy and Garda Buggy brought him over to the ladder and held onto him. He lost consciousness, so she put the man on his back and opened his airway. After a time, he regained consciousness, and the Gardaí were able to encourage him to climb up the ladder with assistance. He was taken to hospital and made a full recovery.
Stephen Murray, Joshua Lancaster, Sonia Buggy, Lorcan Cowen,
On 3 August 2024, Gardaí were notified of a woman in distress in the River Barrow in Athy. Garda Curran entered the water and brought the woman to safety with the assistance of Garda Murphy. The woman reentered the water and was carried downstream by the current. Garda
Curran re-entered the water, caught up with her and held onto her while Garda Murphy threw him a ringbuoy. Garda Murphy successfully pulled both Garda Curran and the female to safety and she made a full recovery.
4. Gardaí Hayden Drew (JIT) and Brian Burns (JIT) – Wexford
On 11 November 2023, Gardai Drew and Burns received a call regarding a male in distress in the River at Ferrybank in Wexford. The speed of the current, the cold temperature of the water and the slippery condition of the slipway raised serious concerns for the Gardai. Following a quick assessment of the situation, both Gardaí entered the water just above waist level, and managed to reach the man and take him to safety. He made a full recovery.
5. Gardaí Keith Conlon (JIT), Deirdre Connolly (JIT) and Tara McGrory (Res App) – Donegal
On 17 September 2023, Gardaí Conlon, Connelly and McGrory arrived at Lough Swilly in Buncranna, where a group of people there said that a man was in difficulty somewhere in the water. However, it was dark, and visibility was poor. Gardaí Conlon and Connolly waded into the water for 400 meters, making their way in the general direction of the person in distress. They continued to call out while Garda McGrory shone her torch in their direction from shore. They eventually located the man who was on a sandbar. They reassured him and eventually managed to bring him safely to shore. He made a full recovery.
6. Gardaí Michelle Conway (JIT) and Daniel O Callaghan (JIT) – Cork
On 1 January 2024, Gardaí Conway and O’Callaghan observed a vehicle entering the sea at Gobby beach in Ringaskiddy. Visibility was poor and after assessing the scene and calling for assistance, both Gardaí entered the water and waded out to the vehicle where the driver was in difficulty. The Gardaí broke the window of the car and managed to pull the driver out of the vehicle and safely back to the shore. He made a full recovery.
7. Gardaí JP Twomey, Alison O’Flynn, Richard Casey – Cork
On 1 January 2024, Gardaí Twomey, O’Flynn and Casey became alerted to a woman in distress in the water near Brian Boru bridge on the River Lee. Garda Casey grabbed a ringbuoy and threw it in the direction of woman while Garda Twomey descended a ladder with a second ringbuoy in hand and managed to pass it to the woman. Both Gardaí Casey and O’Flynn controlled the ringbuoy ropes while Garda Twomey reassured the person who was unable to exit the water. They remained with her until the fire brigade unit arrived and removed her from the water. She made a full recovery.
Garda Colman Curran, Kildare.
Gardaí Keith Conlon and Tara McGrory, Donegal.
Gardaí Haydn Drew and Brian Burns, Wexford.
Gardaí Michelle Conway and Daniel O'Callaghan, Cork.
Gardaí Richard Casey, Alison O'Flynn and JP Twomey, Cork.
Gardaí
Senan
Garda Peter McGee, Donegal.
Garda Body Worn Camera Pilot
Waterford Welcomes Final Phase
The third phase of the Body Worn Camera pilot programme for Gardaí, recently launched in Waterford by the Minister for Justice, Helen McEntee and the Garda Commissioner Drew Harris, is the final stage to test the use of the cameras before a national rollout next year.
Following the first trial in Dublin in early June and the second in Limerick in early August, the Justice Minister McEntee said that the impact of body worn cameras (BWCs) on policing operations had already been seen in both cities.
“Gardaí equipped with the cameras have been able to capture footage of searches of dwellings which uncovered drugs and assist in the de-escalation of tensions during protests and incidents of disruption,” she noted.
The small lightweight cameras will be visibly worn by Gardaí in the pilot locations. BWCs will be provided by three different manufacturers, with a different model to be deployed in each trial location. When complete, the three-phased pilot will inform their rollout in Garda Stations nationwide.
Minister McEntee added: “Introducing Garda Body Worn Cameras will ensure the safety of both Garda members and of members of the public. Attacks on our Gardaí, or attempts to intimidate them, are completely unacceptable. We have already provided €6m for Garda
wellbeing initiatives and additional medical costs and Body Worn Cameras will be key to ensuring Gardaí are protected as they carry out their duties.”
The Garda Síochána (Recording Devices) Act 2023, which was signed into law in December 2023, provides for Body Worn Cameras, Garda CCTV, automatic number plate recognition, and Community CCTV.
Each BWC can record footage to its own internal encrypted storage, which will be uploaded when the Garda docks the camera in a Garda station. The camera footage is uploaded at the end of a shift to be used as evidence at court or is deleted after an agreed time if it is not required as evidence.
All of the digital imagery collected by BWCs will be managed by a Digital Evidence Management System (DEMS) –an ICT software solution that will enable Gardaí to collect, store, manage and analyse digital evidence from BWC footage. DEMS will also provide a platform on which to manage existing CCTV Video Management Systems (VMS).
An important part of the rollout of BWC has been the development by the Garda Commissioner of a Code of Practice for Gardaí, to govern the use of the cameras. The Code is authorised by a Ministerial order, which was signed by Minister McEntee on 15 May 2024.
The pilot phase has seen BWCs rolled out in the following locations:
• DMR South Central, Pearse Street Garda Station, Kevin Street Garda Station
• DMR North Central, Store Street Garda Station
• Limerick Garda Division, Henry Street Garda Station
• Waterford Division, Waterford Garda Station
Applied
Corporate,
Data Protection Law
Immigration and Asylum Law
Law and Education
Lawyer-Linguistics
Legal Practice
Legal Translation
Legislative Drafting
Electoral Law and Politics
Mediation
Medical Law
Planning and Environmental Law
Public Procurement Law
Quasi-Judicial Decision-Making
Media and Social Media Law
Education and its wider value (ESDS)
When we speak of creating or developing an attitude of mind, we are landed in the field of education. What then are we to understand by the word ‘education’ in the context of road safety or collision prevention? It surely implies correct information, tuition, and training for everyone that forms part of the stream of movement on our streets and roads. Applied to road safety then I would endeavour to define education as the imparting of knowledge with a view to creating or developing an attitude of mind about driving that will manifest itself in agreement with what has been learned and driving behaviour that reflects the attitude.
Information on road safety initiatives such as the Emergency Services Driving Standard (ESDS) must be communicated to all who are affected: but information even when adequate and concise in form, may not be enough; the trainers and drivers must grasp at least some of the reasoning that lies behind the initiative. Failing to understand the core elements of ESDS the trainers and drivers will not develop a proper attitude and their behaviour may continue to be irresponsible.
The objective of the ESDS is to educate people in road safety, to develop in the individual an attitude of mind and a sense of personal responsibility not merely for their actions but also for the consequences of their actions.
It is important to point out that a multi- disciplined approach is needed: for example, information that is absorbed as knowledge must be put to work while behind the wheel and training in personal responsibility must be accepted.
The ESDS initiative is a large and significant investment in Road Safety in Ireland. ESDS using the System of Vehicle control as detailed below will not only educate our emergency services drivers in relation to collision prevention but will also instill the understanding of what collision prevention means - the object of educating is not so much to protect them from danger continually, as to enable them to live in a dangerous world without losing their enjoyment of driving . Such an attitude is educational in outlook.
A total of 2,959 emergency service drivers certified to higher driving standard since 2014.
A total of 2,959 (January 2024) emergency service drivers have been certified to the higher Emergency Services Driving Standard (ESDS) since the initiative was introduced in 2014.
100 New Speed Cameras To Hit The Road
Under €9m Budget Funding
Government resources to enhance road safety has seen the allocation of €9 million in funding to roll out up to 100 new speed cameras throughout Ireland under Budget 2025, as recently announced by the Justice Minister Helen McEntee TD.
This significant investment to support An Garda Síochána to roll out more speed cameras aims to provide for improved enforcement of traffic laws and help to reduce speeding, ultimately saving lives on Irish roads.
Last year, the Justice Minister Helen McEntee allocated a 20% increase in funding for ‘GoSafe’ speed cameras, resulting in a total of 9,000 hours of speed monitoring per month across the country for the entirety of 2024.
Minister McEntee said: “There are still too many people willing to drive without due care, by speeding, driving recklessly or driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Successful road safety strategies require stakeholders to consider several matters that together can save lives: technology, road design, driver behaviour and education, severity of penalties, speed limits, and of course, where all else fails, enforcement.
"It’s vital we leverage technology to make our roads safer for everyone. International experience shows
speed cameras lead to drivers reducing speed.”
The location of the static speed safety cameras will be based on fatality and serious injury collision data, alongside speed data and feedback from stakeholders. The Minister pointed to an increased investment by An Garda Síochána in roads policing activity and related technology.
This has included recruiting additional Gardaí to roads policing, assigning roads policing activity to every Garda member daily, high visibility targeted operations on bank holiday weekends, automatic number plate recognition technology; and now the enforcement of additional speed cameras nationwide.
“The investment has resulted in an impressive improvement in road policing enforcement during the year. We now need to continue to build on the good work already achieved by An Garda Síochána, as we collectively move toward the goal of reducing serious injuries and deaths on our roads,” noted Minister McEntee.
ROAD SAFETY MEASURES ROLLED OUT
• Additional funding in 2024 to increase camera deployments and monitoring hours.
• 12 extra speed cameras by year end with an additional 100 in operation across 2025.
• 75 extra Gardaí to Roads Policing in 2024 and a further 75 in 2025.
• 30 minutes of high visibility roads policing in each tour of duty by all uniformed Gardaí.
• May 2024 marked the official Garda launch of a system to identify uninsured vehicles by scanning the vehicle registration on the Garda Mobility Device, providing real time, up-to-date insurance information for every private vehicle in the country
• An unmarked lorry introduced by An Garda Síochána to assist with enforcement is already making detections.
• Beyond Garda investment in the new safety cameras during 2025, work is ongoing on the development of a National Road Safety Camera Strategy, led by Transport Infrastructure Ireland and with the contribution of An Garda Síochána and other stakeholders. The aim is to improve road safety by developing an organisational framework, strategy and roadmap for enhancing camera-based enforcement.
First Chopper in Coast Guard’s New Fleet Lands At Weston Airport
Irish Coast Guard Director Micheal O’Toole and Assistant Secretary Joanna Cullen pictured with James Lawless, Minister of State at the Department of Transport with responsibility for the Coast Guard, following the arrival of the first new AW189 chopper (one in a fleet of six ordered under the new ten-year contract with Bristow Ireland).
The first AW189 helicopter in the Irish Coast Guard’s new aircraft fleet has landed at Weston Airport, and forms part of the full fleet which will comprise six AW189 helicopters, five of which will be newly built, along with two fixed-wing aircraft.
The helicopters will be stationed at Weston (Dublin), Sligo, Waterford and Shannon, providing day and night, year-round availability. The Fixed Wing aircraft service will be based at Shannon. The fleet will enable the Irish Coast Guard to continue to provide world-class maritime, coastal and inland search and rescue services, which have saved the lives of over 300 people in 2024 alone.
The aircraft fleet will also be used for environmental monitoring, and for other essential services including helicopter emergency medical and Air Ambulance Services on behalf of the HSE and National Ambulance Service.
Welcoming the arrival, the Minister of State at the Department of Transport with responsibility for the Coast Guard, James Lawless, said: “This fleet will enhance the Coast Guard’s capability to deliver a world class search and rescue and maritime environment monitoring
services, along with the essential aviation support service provided to other state organisations including the National Ambulance Service, An Garda Síochána, and National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Services.
“Coast Guard personnel are incredibly committed to assisting the public, sometimes in extremely challenging situations. This new fleet ensures that the highest standards of safety and professionalism continue to be met, as they carry out their lifesaving work.”
SEARCH & RESCUE EXERCISES
The aircraft service will be operated by Bristow Ireland Limited under a ten-year contract which will become fully operational in July 2025. Both the helicopters and fixed wing aircraft will feature a new Coast Guard livery.
Coast Guard volunteers, RNLI, community inshore rescue and mountain rescue teams will now work with the new helicopter, conducting
Hook Lighthouse is a gem on Ireland’s Ancient East located on the tip of the Hook Peninsula in Wexford, Ireland.
• Open all year
• Enjoy the Cafe and Gift Shop
• Free parking and an extensive picnic area
• Free Wifi
• Relax by the Sea and look out for seals, dolphins and even whales!
TII's purpose is to provide sustainable transport infrastructure and services, delivering a better quality of life, supporting economic growth and respecting the environment.
TII would like to thank all our emergency services for ensuring that Ireland’s National Road Network can continue to connect families, communities, and businesses.
exercises that replicate everyday search and rescue activities.
The transition from the existing contract is scheduled to commence on 31 October 2024, when Bristow will assume responsibility for Shannon-based operations. The intervening time will be used for training and conducting familiarisation exercises before it is put into active service. The other three bases at Sligo, Waterford, and Dublin Weston will transition to the new contracted service on a phased basis between now and July 2025.
Philip Bartlett, Director of Bristow Ireland, said that the scheduled process for introducing the new SAR service for the Irish Coast Guard is now well under way. “We will be phasing in new equipment and new technology to this trusted, lifesaving service throughout the transition period.”
The contract for the new service, which costs in the region of €800 million, was signed in August 2023 following Government approval to award the contract to Bristow Ireland. The new choppers will enable enhanced fleet resilience and will have a capacity to land at elevated sites, such as the new National Children’s Hospital. They also have lower carbon emissions, and enhanced mission management and communication systems. Maintenance will be carried out at all four bases.
For more information about the AW189 from Bristow visit https://new.express.adobe.com/webpage/ gNQpyaZ0VHsjU
for
The new contract will enable the Irish Coast Guard to continue to provide:
• Maritime and inland Search and Rescue services
• Environmental monitoring
• Helicopter Emergency Medical and Air Ambulance Services, including day and night aeromedical services to the offshore Island communities
• Support to other national emergency services.
The scheduled process
introducing the new SAR service for the Irish Coast Guard is now well under way, according to Philip Bartlett, Director of Bristow Ireland.
Minister James Lawless takes a seat inside the cockpit of the new AW189 helicopter at Weston Airport, pictured with Coast Guard's Assistant Secretary Joanna Cullen and Director Micheal O’Toole.
The AW189 helicopter pictured during initial test flights in Italy before it landed at Weston Airport at the end of August. (Pics: Bristow Group).
‘National Services Day 2024’ served once again to celebrate Ireland’s statutory and voluntary emergency services, as over 1,000 personnel from the frontline services paraded along the streets of Dublin, Cork, Kildare, Kilkenny, Limerick, Drogheda and Wexford. Owen Medland, founding board member of National Services Day, reflects on the success of the event since it was first rolled out in 2013.
It was late 2012 when I received a phone call from a gentleman introducing himself as Seamus O’Neill.
Since that call and over the next 12 years the concept of a day for the men and women of Ireland’s frontline, emergency and security services was born.
Seamus O’Neill, a retired school principal never forgot the support local frontline service workers gave to his school. “We’d had no money in the school and the army, and the guards used to play football matches to fundraise for us. So, in 2013 I was looking around and there was nothing in the State that recognised the work that the emergency and security services were doing.”
He decided to do something about it. He pulled together volunteers from all the frontline services to form a non-profit organisation: FESSEF (Frontline Emergency and Security Services Eire Forum). Their mission would be to create events for the public to show their appreciation, while fostering greater collaboration between their services. In 2021 FESSEF was restructured and rebranded as National Services Day and by taking that phonecall in 2012 I was committed to this vision as one of the “volunteers” from the services.
From the first year of the parade in 2013 it was evident to the small committee under Seamus’s dogged determination that there was an appetite for Ireland’s
statutory and voluntary services to celebrate their collective service, to commemorate those who have served and inspired the next generation to volunteer and work in the sector.
By 2018 with some 24 state and voluntary bodies now on board and the annual parade gaining attention on the streets of Dublin, the day was to become official when the then Taoiseach Leo Varadkar approved the granting of the first Saturday of September as National Services Day. “You are an integral part of the fabric of every community and the life blood of civic engagement when danger presents,” he had noted at the time.
‘NATIONAL SERVICES DAY’ REBRANDED
Following the event in 2019, the consolidation of the work of the small committee saw the rebranding as National Services Day and the election of a voluntary board to build and drive Ireland’s fledgling national day. Under the stewardship of the new Chairperson Aiden Hanna the small board set about bringing structure, professionalism and sustainability to a new brand of National Services Day.
The team moved through the Covid years and seized the public’s appetite for recognition; the regional committees were formed, the NSD website was developed while branded materials were produced to
‘National Services Day 2024’ was officially launched in Dublin Castle by Minister for Public Expenditure Paschal Donohoe and Lord Mayor of Dublin James Geoghegan, pictured here with Aidan Hanna, Chair of the National Services Day (NSD) Board and with some members from the various emergency services who will participate in this year’s parade.
promote National Services Day and its ethos.
Looking back on these times it is incredible what was achieved on top of the busy day jobs of the small board at the heart of National Services Day. For me personally I continue to challenge those in office to organise a National Services Day for their people as it is clearly apparent that the benefits far outweigh any challenge that participation may present. Ultimately the showcasing of what good citizenship looks like is a priceless societal bonus.
The big challenge for this year’s National Services Day came when the Nations League football fixture between Ireland vs England, not to mention other major events, were scheduled for the first Saturday of September.
CEREMONY REMEMBERS LIVES LOST IN NATIONAL SERVICE
A wreath-laying ceremony at Dublin Castle marked the start of this year’s National Services Day on 14 September, followed by a minute’s silence to remember those who lost their lives in national service, while ‘The Last Post’ was played before Ireland’s tricolour was raised to full mast and Amhrán na bhFiann played.
"The day reminds us that many public servants put themselves at risk, at a time in which citizens can be vulnerable, also at moments of danger. It allows us to recognise all of our different public servants across the different organisations, to thank them for their work and understand the variety of work that goes on in looking after our country,” noted Minister for Public Expenditure Paschal Donohoe.
Lord Mayor of Dublin James Geoghegan said: “It is a hugely felt emotion amongst Irish people and amongst Dubliners as to how proud we are of our services. It is incumbent on every politician to support you in any way that we possibly can.”
Owen Medland has held several RNLI operational roles during a career that spans 25 years in supporting the safe delivery of service for the 46 lifeboat stations in Ireland. A familiar face in the maritime and inland waters SAR circles in Ireland, the former naval officer now volunteers as a water safety officer with Clogherhead RNLI, and serves on the Board of National Services Day, since its inception in 2013.
Leading this year’s parades, the RNLI was acknowledged for providing 200 years of service.
With state and voluntary emergency personnel assigned to look after the public’s safety the difficult decision was made to reschedule the parade to Saturday 14 September. However, the regional event in Wexford was able to go ahead on 7 September, due the availability of the town’s quayside location.
The weather certainly shone on both 7 and 14 September, with the levels of engagement and enjoyment at the events in Dublin, Wexford, Drogheda, Cork, Kildare, Limerick and Galway palpable for all those who attended and participated.
CURRENT NSD BOARD ELECTED FOR 2025
• Chairperson: Aiden Hanna – Civil Defence
• Vice Chairperson: Darryl Coen – National Ambulance Service
• Spokesperson: Owen Medland – RNLI Volunteer
• Treasurer: Turlough Dooley – Dublin Airport Fire and Rescue Service
• Social Media Officer: Wesley O'Sullivan – Order of Malta Ambulance Corps
• Education Officer: Fergus Murray – National Ambulance Service
Chairperson Aiden Hanna, Civil Defence officer, addresses attendees at the wreath-laying ceremony in Dublin Castle.
For further information email info@nationalservicesday.ie or visit www.nationalservicesday.ie
PROTECTING THE CITY AND COUNTY SINCE 1862
COMMEMORATIVE SERVICE
In Dublin a commemorative wreath-laying service was held in Dublin Castle in advance of the parade through the nation’s capital. The regional and Dublin displays were thronged with youngsters exploring the stands, equipment and talking with the personnel who participated in the National Services Day, delivering on its mission to inspire future service personnel.
During the parades the sound of bands and music resonated throughout their communities with a special mention to Ireland’s Cancer Choir ‘Sea of Change’ – this incredibly strong group of ladies turns out, year on year, to support National Services Day.
Importantly, I witnessed both fulltime staff members and volunteers from various organisations renewing their friendships, having met during events from previous years, bringing to life the vision of camaraderie between the unseen and unsung staff and volunteers from across Ireland’s services.
It was very rewarding to witness the impressive turnout of Defence Forces personnel alongside voluntary services such as the Order of Malta, Blood Bikes to the ever-present members of An Garda Síochána, the HSE National Ambulance Service and the fire services.
This annual event is about the public celebrating and commemorating the work of Ireland’s emergency services, and likewise for these
services to inspire the next generation. Ranging from our Gardaí, Defence Forces, National Ambulance Service, Dublin Fire Brigade through to the Irish Coast Guard, RNLI, Order of Malta, St John's Ambulance, the list is endless. They are all part of a network that keeps us safe every day. It would not be possible to name or thank everyone involved in supporting the day. My fellow Bboard members and I hope that these reflections inspire those in office and positions of influence to support next year’s National Services Day on 6 September 2025.
DURACOLOUR
A sustainable, aesthetic and durable flexible pavement.
Asphalt surfaces created specifically to compliment and enhance both the built and natural environment. Duracolour is manufactured in Ireland using local naturally coloured aggregates, which guarantee a sustainable, aesthetic and durable flexible pavement. Our Duracolour surfaces are designed to be compliant with the performance requirements of Irish and European Specifications.
Registration Now Open For Research Conference 2024
Registration is now open for this year’s ‘Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Research in Ireland’ Conference, which returns to the Glenroyal Hotel, Maynooth, Co. Kildare on Wednesday 13 November, with a pre-conference networking event the previous evening.
Following the success of the inaugural conference in 2023, this agenda for this year’s conference will once more promote and inspire pre-hospital emergency care research in Ireland, while also showcasing international research expertise.
There will also be six interactive presentations and five break-out sessions throughout the day, led by Irish and international experts in pre-hospital research.
Register online at https://phecc2024.exordo.com - the registration fee is €20 per delegate. All queries can be emailed to research@phecc.ie
INTERNATI ONAL GUEST SPEAKERS
* Dr Jamie Vassallo works in Major Incident Triage, Division of Emergency Medicine at the University of Cape Town, South Africa. Jamie is a Surgeon Commander of the Royal Navy, Consultant in Emergency Medicine and Pre-Hospital Emergency Medicine, Defence Medical Services, Honorary Senior Lecturer, Academic Department of Military Emergency Medicine, Royal Centre for Defence Medicine. (Joining Remotely)
* Dr Claire Park MBE is a Consultant in Pre-Hospital Emergency Medicine for London HEMS, and Anaesthesia and Critical Care Medicine at King’s College Hospital and Medical Adviser to the Specialist Firearms teams of the Met Police.
* Dr Philip Cowburn MBE is a Consultant in Emergency Medicine working in Bristol who has been active in prehospital care since 2004. Co-founder of Great Western Air Ambulance, he is also Acute Care Medical Director for South-Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust.
* J.D. Heffern is a Chief Paramedic for Indigenous Services Canada with the Government of Canada. He has worked
as a frontline paramedic, paramedic educator, community paramedic, and at various levels of paramedic service leadership. J.D. was Commander with the County of Renfrew Paramedic Service.
* Paige Mason is a special operations tactical paramedic with the Ottawa Paramedic Service. She recently finished her MA in Interdisciplinary Studies with a focus on paramedic wellbeing. A member of the McNally Project for Paramedicine Research, Paige has a continued interest in appreciative inquiry, occupational and organisational culture, and paramedic driven research.
* Dr Alan Batt is Paramedicine Programme Lead at Queen's University, and Adjunct Senior Lecturer at Monash University and Charles Sturt University. He is a scientist with the McNally Project for Paramedicine Research, and Deputy Editor of Paramedicine. His research uses mixedmethods approaches to explore health education, underserved populations, community paramedicine, and social and structural determinants of health.
More speakers to be included.
Billions In Bonanza Budget For Justice And Defence
Budget 2025 has seen a bonanza of up to €4bn in the justice sector to equip frontline Gardaí with the resources to strengthen crime prevention and detection measures, while €1.35bn in defence funding will go towards supporting the transformation of the Defence Forces as recommended by the Commission and the Independent Review Group.
Arecord €3.61 billion for current expenditure and €310 million for capital investment in the justice sector will aim to enhance public safety, improve crime prevention, ensure safe prisons, and drive modernisation across Ireland’s immigration systems.
Following the release of Budget 2025, Minister for Justice, Helen McEntee TD said that the investment of nearly €4bn also serve to support the rollout of 36 Community Safety Partnerships nationwide, and strengthen efforts under the Zero Tolerance Strategy to combat domestic, sexual, and gender-based violence (DSGBV).
In addition, significant funding will be allocated for targeted road safety initiatives and to recruit additional prison staff and alleviate the acute pressures of overcrowding within Irish prisons.
A key focus of Minister McEntee’s Budget is on reform of family law. Over €11m has been allocated to increase staff and improve the Courts Service. An additional €3m will enable the use of expert reports as outlined in the Family Justice Strategy to ensure the voice of each
child impacted by family break ups can be heard and to safeguard their needs within the justice system.
Through the enactment of the Family Courts Bill, the Minister will move to establish the Family District Court, the Family Circuit Court and the Family High Court, to transform our family justice system and make it more user friendly for families.
FUNDING FOR JUSTICE SECTOR
An Garda Síochána
• Garda funding increased by over €500m, bringing the total budget to €2.4bn.
• Funding to recruit between 800 and 1,000 new Gardaí, along with 150 Garda staff and move towards 1,000 Garda reserves.
• Garda overtime boosted by 13%, rising to €150m, to enhance high-visibility policing efforts and serious crime investigation.
• €1.5m allocated for Garda workforce wellbeing measures, including medical expenses.
• €5m to be provided for Public Order Units including two
new water cannons, crowd control barriers, expansion of the dog unit and more body armour for frontline Gardaí.
• €9m in additional funding to enhance road safety.
Capital Investments
• €100m funding for ICT to equip Gardaí with tools to enhance crime prevention and detection, including body-worn cameras (BWCs) and a digital evidence management system to facilitate nationwide rollout of BWCs and introduction of facial recognition technology.
• €62m investment in the Garda estate across the country with major projects progressed in 2025 including Portlaoise, Macroom, Clonmel and Newcastlewest.
• Fleet upgrades, including new public order vehicles and investment in a range of specialist vehicles to support modern policing.
• Delivery of a new helicopter in Q1 2025 for Garda Air Support Unit.
Domestic, Sexual, and Gender-Based Violence (DSGBV) & Community Safety
• DSGBV funding is increasing to €70m – treble funding for DSGBV services when Minister McEntee first became Minister for Justice, and a further significant increase for 2025.
• Increased funding for Cuan to €67m including additional resources to support implementation of the Zero Tolerance strategy, with funding for 80 additional refuge spaces.
• €800k for Cuan will provide for research and data analytics to develop an impact-led approach for knowledge development to achieve effective DSGBV prevention, protection, prosecution and policy coordination.
• Further targeted open call will be launched in 2025 to allow services to come forward with proposals.
• €9.5m allocated for nationwide Community Safety Partnerships and the establishment of a National Office for Community Safety and the Community Safety Fund.
• Expanded Youth Justice Strategy with increase of total funding by €3.2m, bringing the total to €33 million.
Prisons and Probation
• €525m to increase prison capacity and tackle overcrowding – an increase of €79m.
• Recruitment of 150 orison officers in addition to the 240 prison officers recruited in 2024.
• Additional €6.2m to fund 130,000 additional staff hours in prisons.
• €53m capital funding to provide for completion of 155 new prison spaces by the end of 2024.
• The Probation Service to receive an additional €4m bringing the total budget to over €60m to expand crime diversion programmes, support step-down facilities, restorative justice and community-based alternatives to imprisonment.
Immigration Modernisation
• €25m package for immigration system including service delivery, International Protection Office (IPO), International Protection Appeals Tribunal and the Legal Aid Board.
• Significant additional resources directed to streamline the international protection process, with approx. 400
further staff to be recruited. This will provide for over 25,000 IPO decisions compared to over 14,000 cases in 2024.
• €5m in increased investment in digital systems to modernise immigration systems, reduce processing times, increase removals (including with a new charter plane service), and strengthen border security.
• Readiness work to introduce the EU Asylum and Migration Pact requirements in 2026.
Courts
• €11.1m to Courts Service to include 50 additional staff to support the expanding Judiciary brings budget to over €195m, to reduce backlogs and ensure quicker administration of justice.
• It includes €2m to support modernisation measures including outsourced jury minding to free up thousands of Garda hours for frontline policing services.
• Additional funding of €3m to provide pilot project to support the voice of children in family justice proceedings, including recruitment of staff and other services to assist in proceedings.
• The budget for criminal legal aid will increase in 2025 by over €9m which will include an 8% increase in fees from 1 January 2025. This is in addition to the 10% increase in fees secured in Budget 2024. The Minister is committed to building on this progress.
Funding resulting from the Policing, Security and Community Safety Act 2024
• A total package of €28m provided for new bodies including Fiosrú (replacing GSOC), the Policing and Community Safety Authority, and the Office of the Independent Examiner.
• Together with 36 Community Safety Partnerships nationwide and the National Office of Community Safety it will strengthen effective cross-agency working in partnership with local communities on public safety.
“This Budget provides investment across the entire criminal justice system, including the courts and the prisons and builds on a robust programme of new laws and policy delivery, along with significant capital investments in technology, equipment, and buildings.
Minister for Justice Helen McEntee.
DW Utility Services Ltd lead the way in utility services installation, repair and maintenance.
We provide services involving ESB Ducting, civils required for E-charging installations, electro-fusion welding of water mains including all testing and reporting, installation of foul, storm, public lighting, communication ducting works on sites and in public areas with full reinstatement of all surfaces on completion.
Proj
"In 2025, we’ll continue to strengthen frontline policing with between 800 and 1,000 new Gardaí set to begin training in Templemore. An increase in the Garda trainee allowance to €354 per week and I have provided millions of euros for public order equipment including body armour, expansion of the dog unit and two new water cannons.”
The Minister said she will continue to provide funding to free-up Gardaí for frontline policing work. New funding will ensure that the Courts Service can outsource jury minding, to free up thousands of Garda hours for frontline policing services. "The increased budget for Garda overtime will ensure that cities, towns, and rural communities continue to benefit from enhanced visibility and public safety.”
Ensuring frontline Gardaí are equipped with BodyWorn Cameras (BWCs) is part of the Minister’s plan to ensure that An Garda Síochána is a leading and modern police service fit for the digital age. “A total of €100m for Garda ICT will support the further development of a digital evidence management systems which will enable the faster review of evidence and support speedier detection and prosecution of offences. It will also enable the nationwide roll-out of BWCs and the introduction of facial recognition technology for the first time.
“In 2025, €5.5m will be invested to roll out 36 Community Safety Partnerships across the country with the support of the New National Office to be shortly launched. The Community Safety Fund, which reinvests proceeds seized by CAB, is increasing to €4m.”
EU MIGRATION PACT
On the investment to achieve improvements in all aspects of the immigration system, the Minister stated: “My priority is to deliver faster processing, a more efficient returns system and stronger border security. The €25m investment will modernise Ireland’s immigration system, by reducing application processing times, significantly increasing staff and through greater use of technology. These measures will enable progress toward our obligations under the EU Migration Pact which comes into effect in 2026.”
In relation to the Family Justice Strategy, which recognises the importance of the voices of children who have been impacted by family law disputes, the Minister secured €3m in 2025 for a programme of work. “This is to improve the quality of expert reports in family law proceedings
and to standardise practises relating to how they are commissioned and by whom. These will help to safeguard our children and advocate for their best interests."
In relation to Ireland’s prison system, overall capacity will be increased to relieve pressure within the system with the recruitment of additional prison officers. The allocation of €53m in capital funding will help to deliver over 1,100 new prison spaces in the coming years.
“Additional funding of €4m has also been secured for the probation service to offer cost-effective alternatives to prison, by also facilitating increased community return and reducing delays and adjournments across the criminal courts.”
Next year will be the first full year of operation of several new statutory bodies to operate and oversee policing, security, and community safety. "In 2025, we’ll continue to ensure the Data Protection Commission has the resources to safeguard the privacy rights of our citizens,” the Minister reflected.
DEFENCE FUNDING OF €1.35 BILLION
Budget 2025 has allocated €1.35bn in Defence funding, an increase of €100m since 2024, which will enable further progress on transforming the Defence Forces as
on the frontline
recommended by the Commission on the Defence Forces and the Independent Review Group.
Budget Highlights for Defence:
• €469m for Permanent Defence Forces pay, including €13m for the recruitment of 400 additional members.
• An increased advertising allocation of €3.2m to provide further impetus to Defence Forces recruitment efforts.
• Over €6m for additional civilian recruitment and to allow for an increased spend on external expertise and services.
• €6m for the full year costs of the Tribunal of Inquiry in 2025 arising from the IRG Report.
• An additional €8m to support Air Corps fleet maintenance, airfield and training costs.
• €329m to meet the pensions costs of Defence Forces Veterans and their dependents.
• Additional funding for several other priorities, including Reserve Defence Force regeneration and increased funding to Civil Defence to support the recruitment of new Assistant Civil Defence Officers and Health & Safety Officers.
ONGOING INVESTMENT
The Tánaiste & Minister for Defence Micheál Martin said:
“This funding will facilitate ongoing investment in our Defence capabilities along with allowing crucial progress in the modernisation of the Defence Forces.
“Budget 2025 for Defence includes the highest ever level of capital funding,
at €215m. In addition, a significant current allocation of over €805m includes funding for the recruitment of net 400 additional Defence Forces members.
“The Budget funding will facilitate significant progress on important defence projects, including military radar, subsea awareness, force protection equipment and Defence Forces infrastructure.
"Budget 2025 will also allow the Air Corps to take delivery of the new Airbus C295W aircraft. This level of investment is critical in the current geopolitical situation.”
Firebird's Renewable Product Range
Firebird has been delivering world class products for the past 40 years, while setting new standards in quality, sustainability and innovation. We guarantee a stress free installation process and a backup service you can really trust - great for the installer and the customer!
We have the complete Heating Solution for your new build or retrofit
• High performance levels and space saving.
• Economical and environmentally friendly.
• Ideal for newbuilds or home upgrades.
• Comfort all year round. Envirogreen Boiler Range
• HVO ready.
• 25-30% savings on fuel bills.
• Up to 97.5% efficiency.
• Easy to service & maintain.
from your Local Builder Provider t: +353 (0)26
‘Mayday’ Marks Presentation of Capt Dara Fitzpatrick Award
This year’s ceremony for the Capt Dara Fitzpatrick Award took place on 1 May, which was very fitting since ‘Mayday’ is the internationally recognised emergency distress signal. Now in its second year, the award presentation served to remember Dara’s legacy as an Irish Coast Guard Search and Rescue pilot by celebrating inspirational women who work in Ireland’s pre-hospital community and emergency services.
The University of Limerick hosted first responders from around Ireland on 1 May for the presentation of this year’s Capt Dara Fitzpatrick Award. The initiative was launched by the Irish Paramedicine Education and Research Network (IPERN) on 8 March 2023 (International Women’s Day) to honour the memory of one of Ireland’s first female search and rescue pilots. This inter-professional, volunteer team of paramedics, nurses, doctors, allied health professionals and scientists is dedicated to supporting best practice for out-ofhospital care nationally through engagement, education and collaboration.
IPERN is chaired by Dr Niamh Cummins, Associate Professor in Public Health in the School of Medicine at UL who hosted the award ceremony with her colleague Gráinne O’Shea, an Advanced Paramedic who leads the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) group at IPERN.
Niamh and Gráinne collaborated closely with the
Private Nicole Carroll of the Irish Defence Forces was presented with the Capt Dara Fitzpatrick Award for 2024 by Dara’s sister Emer Fitzpatrick.
Pictured at the presentation to the five finalists (l-r): Dr Niamh Cummins, Chair of IPERN and Associate Professor in Public Health in the School of Medicine at UL; Advanced Paramedic Caitriona Edgar, HSE National Ambulance Service; Garda Emma Henebery; overall winner Private Nicole Carroll, Irish Defence Forces; Olivia Byrne, Community Nurse and Galway RNLI Volunteer; Dr Sinead Campbell-Gray, EM Consultant in Belfast and doctor with Air Ambulance Northern Ireland; Dara’s mother Mary Fitzpatrick and Gráinne O’Shea, Advanced Paramedic who leads IPERN’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion group.
Fitzpatrick family in developing the award which celebrates Dara’s values of compassion, kindness, strength, bravery, leadership, teamwork and professionalism.
The five finalists for the 2024 award, chosen by a review panel using a rigorous selection process, were described by Dr Cummins as “shining examples of women at the height of their professions, who go above and beyond in serving their communities”.
The overall award was presented to Private Nicole Carroll of the Irish Defence Forces at the ceremony by Dara’s sister Emer Fitzpatrick. Private Carroll is a DF combat medical technician who lives and works in the Curragh Camp, Co. Kildare where she cares for 1,200 soldiers.
The other finalists were Caitriona Edgar, advanced paramedic with the HSE National Ambulance Service; Garda Emma Henebery, uniformed specialist firearms officer with the Armed Support Unit; Dr Sinead CampbellGray, emergency medicine consultant in Belfast and doctor with Air Ambulance Northern Ireland, and Olivia Byrne, community nurse and Galway RNLI volunteer.
On announcing Private Nicole Carroll as the overall award winner, Dr Cummins highlighted how difficult a decision it had been for the
award review panel “especially when all of the finalists were so deserving of the honour”.
SPECIAL RECOGNTION AWARD
A Special Recognition Award was also presented to the family of Caitríona Lucas, the Irish Coast Guard volunteer who tragically lost her life in 2016 while assisting in a search and rescue operation off the coast of Co. Clare.
The presentation was made by Dara’s father John Fitzpatrick to Caitríona’s husband Bernard Lucas. Caitríona
Irish Coast Guard volunteer Caitríona Lucas tragically lost her life in 2016 in Co. Clare.
Design, manufacture and deliver portable & modular buildings for a wide range of uses
MAYO COUNTY COUNCIL
was described as “an immense volunteer, who created enormous opportunities that enriched her community”.
Delivering the opening address for the 2024 Award Ceremony, Prof Colum Dunne, Head of UL’s School of Medicine, shared his personal experiences of growing up with a firefighter father in Cork and highlighted the vital work of first responders and the important role played by women in the frontline emergency services.
Following the opening address, Donegal paramedic with the National Ambulance Service Frances Griffin, the inaugural winner of the Capt Dara Fitzpatrick Award in 2023, spoke with Grainne O’Shea.
Frances, who was one of the first paramedics to arrive at the scene of the Creeslough explosion in October 2022, shared her memories of that tragic day and described with an equal mix of humility and humour how she continues to cope with the challenges of life on the road as a paramedic.
TESTAMONIALS FOR 2024 AWARD FINALISTS
*Private Nicole Carroll: Overall winner of the Capt Dara Fitzpatrick Award 2024, Nicole is a combat medical technician in the Defence Forces. She works mainly at the military medical facility in the Curragh where she provides primary medical care to approximately 1,200 soldiers. This also involves occupational medical support, ambulance duties for operational deployments, parachuting and combat training.
Nicole was a member of the medical section with the 121st Battalion in the Lebanon during a very tense and kinetic period from November 2022 to May 2023. This was her first tour of duty with the UN, and despite being a junior member of the battalion Nicole conducted herself in a manner of outstanding professionalism.
In the performance of her duties, she upheld the highest standards and demonstrated great strength and ability. Upon her return Nicole also represented the DF on an international stage during ‘ExArduous Serpent’ – a gruelling military medic competition held over 24 hours and 20km where Nicole’s leadership was key to the team securing a podium finish.
Nicole is from a military family but has never lived in the shadow of her family name, instead forging her own path to become widely respected among her peers. She has a very patient cantered and caring approach and constantly demonstrates acts of selflessness.
*Dr Sinead Campbell-Gray: Nominated a record 14 times, Sinead works as an Emergency Medicine Consultant in Belfast and also as a doctor on Air Ambulance Northern
Ireland. She tirelessly worked and campaigned in her free time to realise the dream of having a NI HEMS team ensuring the rural population in the north has expert hospital services on the doorstep.
Sinead also does pro-bono work in training others to deliver the highest standard of care and is described as the ‘ultimate selfless professional’. Sinead has been a great advocate and mentor for female professionals in the prehospital setting, ensuring that their voices are heard and respected in an environment which has traditionally been very male centric.
A Special Recognition Award was presented to the family of Caitríona Lucas.
Pte Nicole Carroll, Award Winner.
Dr Sinead Campbell Grey.
24/7 CAFE · BAR OPEN FROM 12.30PM DAILY DROP IN AND SAY ‘HELLO’
‘WRITE YOUR OWN TRAVEL STORY’
An absolute consummate professional who leads her team and cares for her patients very much from the heart. Her compassion was spoken of again and again and summed up here in a single quote ‘She brought light in the darkest time’. Her skills, her dedication, her joyful personality her zest for life and happiness is infectious. All this together with her relentless determination to help others brings out the best in others too. Sinead has also been inspiring the youngsters by talking to children in primary schools –no doubt preparing the next generation of little girls to reach for the sky!
*Caitriona Edgar: An advanced paramedic with the HSE National Ambulance Service, Caitriona first started out as an emergency call taker and aeromedical dispatcher and is now a specialist paramedic helicopter candidate.
Regardless of the time, day, mood, inconvenient late call or hunger levels, she shows compassion, kindness and empathy to patients, colleagues and the public. During one incident when off duty, she responded as a rescue volunteer with Dublin Wicklow Mountain Team to an RTC where a French couple were stranded in their campervan. They were uninjured so Caitriona took them back to her house in her car for a few hours until a replacement vehicle was available.
As a tactical EMS medic, whether it is during a raid with the Gardai, public unrest, hostage barricade or a SAR tasking with her mountain rescue and coastguard colleagues, Caitriona shows no hesitation in providing medical care be that on the ground, climbing or getting winched into a helicopter. As a mentor she guides and
gently pushes students in the right direction, encouraging them and never shying away from an opportunity to share her knowledge. Through her professionalism and skill, she is an inspiration as a paramedic and makes the most harrowing, stressful and daunting of scenarios manageable.
*Garda Emma Henebery: With 16 years exemplary service in frontline policing with An Garda Síochána, for the past six years Emma has been attached to the Armed Support Unit (ASU) in Cork, as a uniformed specialist firearms officer, and is one of a small number of female officers to occupy this challenging role.
In 2021, Emma was a member of an ASU team tasked to as address of a known criminal feud which was assessed as being ‘very high risk’. Emma was allocated the role of ‘point’ officer leading and protecting the team by holding a bullet proof shield (PPE weight >20kg). Upon entering the premises, the team were faced by two gunmen and came under fire. Emma was struck by the energy blast of a gunshot resulting in a soft tissue injury.
Displaying remarkable bravery, resolve and a commitment to duty, Emma calmly informed her team leader that a shot had just been fired at the team. She then took up on the door and once it was breached, she entered the volatile room to face down an imminent threat to her life and to protect the lives of her colleagues, managing to subdue the gunman without lethal force.
Following this traumatic and life-threatening incident, Emma was treated at Cork University Hospital but returned to work the next day. She checked on everyone’s welfare,
showing a greater concern for her team, than for herself. The arrests made and weapons recovered directly resulted in lives being saved and the team received Commendations with Distinction for Excellent Police Work. She also acts as a CFR with the medical response charity, CRITICAL, in her locality.
*Olivia Byrne: A nurse and volunteer lifeboat crewmember for over 20 years with Galway RNLI, Olivia has been on over 130 callouts with the station. Inspired by her time working on the Aran Islands as a community nurse, she saw the importance of the emergency services, when a casualty was required to be transported to hospital from the island, relying on lifeboats and the Coast Guard helicopter.
When she moved to Galway, she volunteered to join the RNLI and since then her nursing skills and natural empathy have been a valuable resource to the crew. Olivia has been involved in many unusual rescues even treating passengers on cruise ships, with injuries from fractured hips to cardiac incidents. Olivia has run casualty care training sessions at the station and ensured that new crew are supported in this training and feel comfortable and confident in carrying out these important tasks.
She has also established important links between the lifeboat station with University of Galway (UG) and University Hospital Galway and has run a simulation at sea, at the university’s medical simulator for the lifeboat crew. She feels strongly in providing casualty care, it should be remembered that not all injuries are physical, as there is often an unseen mental health aspect to a response that should be understood. With 20 years of SAR volunteering experience, Olivia can be relied upon at the RNLI station to bring the casualty care work to the fore.
Olivia Byrne, Galway RNLI.
Caitriona Edgar, HSE Paramedic.
Garda Emma Henebery.
New Helipad Has Landed At Cork University Hospital
Helicopters from the Air Corps, HSE and Coast Guard recently practised their landings at the newly opened helipad at Cork University Hospital, which has been without a helipad for over 20 years following the decommissioning of the original one in 2003.
The first emergency helicopters to test land at Cork University Hospital’s new helipad included the HSE Air Ambulance EC135 (9H-SEC), the Irish Air Corps AW139, and the Irish Coast Guard’s ‘Rescue 117’ (the Waterford-based Search and Rescue Sikorsky S-92A EI-ICS).
Planning permission for the helipad at the hospital was granted in July 2019. Further works are due to take place including a covered walkway between the helipad and the hospital. Initially, the helipad will operate during daylight hours, but night-time operations are planned in the future when the related construction work has been completed.
CUH Chief Executive David Donegan said: “The helipad on the hospital campus is a major improvement in access to and from CUH. Patients are now able to receive lifesaving care within 10 minutes of landing, dramatically reducing the times it currently takes when the helicopters need to land either at local GAA grounds or at Cork Airport.
“CUH is Ireland’s only Model 4 specialist hospital, with every surgical and medical speciality co-located on one campus, and capable of caring for every age group.”
The Irish Coast Guard and ambulance service crews took the opportunity to train at loading and unloading a trolley “patient” under rotors-running conditions. (Photos: Gabriel Desmond)
Irish Air Corps AW139.
Irish Coast Guard’s ‘Rescue 117’ arrived from its Waterford base, crewed by pilot Ronan Flanagan, co-pilot Steven Donoghue, winch operator Mick Tracey and winchman Peter O’Neill.
First to test-land was the National Ambulance Service’s EC135 9H-SEC from its base at Rathcoole, Co Cork.
Ireland’s New Forensic Science Lab
‘Most Advanced In Europe’
Forensic Science
Ireland’s new €100m laboratory and headquarters have been described by its Director General Chris Enright as the “most advanced in Europe”. The purpose-built facility, based at the Backweston Campus, Celbridge in Co. Kildare, will facilitate the FSI to take advantage of evolving DNA and other technologies in criminal investigations and providing support of missing persons’ investigations.
The new purpose-built facility represents a deep commitment to the impact and value of forensic science in the country, according to Chris Enright. “It acknowledges the profound impact forensic science has on supporting a functioning society – from supporting criminal investigations, assisting with missing persons’ investigations and body identifications, to identifying new and potentially dangerous psychoactive substances or providing valuable intelligence information through DNA and Fingerprint Databases.
“The demand for our services has grown dramatically over the years and this new building positions us very well to respond. The building also enables us to provide a more integrated forensic service, where our chemical analysis, DNA and biological analysis and physical analysis services can be provided from the same location in an integrated and cohesive way.”
He said that the FSI’s mission is to provide the Irish justice system with a high quality integrated forensic service through independent, expert scientific analysis and advice to
best international standards. I have no doubt that this major capital investment will enable this and will provide for a great future for forensic services in Ireland.
The new laboratory was officially opened by Minister for Justice Helen McEntee, Minister of State with responsibility for law reform James Browne and Minister of State at the OPW Patrick O’Donovan, in March.
SUPPORTING CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS
The Justice Minister said that it will allow FSI to expand, to meet growing future demands and to continue to support and enable An Garda Síochána to secure successful prosecution in thousands of cases per year.
“This new facility futureproofs forensic science in Ireland. FSI is already the unsung hero of our criminal justice system. This development will allow it take full advantage of exciting DNA and other technologies to support criminal investigations.
“Recent advances in forensic science – advances that could only be dreamed of almost 50 years
Purpose-built and designed to the latest ISO standards, it provides state-of-the-art facilities for the recovery and analysis of trace evidence as well as FSI’s broad range of functions including chemical analysis, physical analysis and DNA & Biological Analysis services.
ago when the Forensic Science Laboratory was first established –are having an enormous impact on the criminal justice system’s ability to deliver justice and deter crime.”
Referring to the investment involved, Minister McEntee continued: “This is the largest ever capital project directly funded by the Exchequer in the justice sector, at just over €100m. That is reflective of the crucial role the FSI plays in our criminal justice system and is a practical demonstration of the Government’s commitment to building stronger, safer communities.”
The new 13,000m² facility is based at the Backweston Campus, Celbridge in Co. Kildare, alongside the laboratories of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and the State Laboratory.
Purpose-built and designed to the latest ISO standards, it provides state-of-the-art facilities for the recovery and analysis of trace evidence as well as FSI’s broad range of functions including chemical analysis, physical analysis and DNA & Biological Analysis services. It will help FSI take full advantage of evolving DNA and other technologies in criminal investigations and support of Missing Person investigations.
EVOLVING TECHNOLOGIES
The construction of the new building at the Backweston Campus started in March 2020 and was completed in July 2023. The State Laboratory and offices, and the laboratories of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) are based on the same campus. The construction of a new Government Data Centre on campus is also underway.
Minister James Browne said the major investment reflects the crucial role played by the FSI in ensuring justice is served in the most serious of criminal cases. “The new headquarters will be a critical part of the infrastructure to fight crime, keep people safe and build stronger communities, allowing FSI to take full advantage of evolving DNA and other technologies in criminal investigations and missing person investigations,” he added.
Meanwhile, Minister Patrick O’Donovan noted that the biggest single investment in forensic science is an investment in Ireland’s future and an acknowledgement of the ever-increasing relevance of forensic services in our justice system. “We now have one of the elite forensic analysis facilities in Europe, designed and delivered by the OPW team,” he added.
SOME FACTS & FIGURES ON BACKWESTON FACILITY
Originally known as the Forensic Science Laboratory, FSI had been based in the Technical Bureau Building of Garda Headquarters in the Phoenix Park since 1975, before moving to the laboratory campus in Celbridge, Co. Kildare.
FSI currently employs 210 staff, including seconded Garda members, scientists and analysts trained in forensic testing and reporting techniques, supported by ICT and administration staff. The new purpose-built facility includes 13,000m2 of lab, office, storage and support workspaces over three floors, compared with 4,000m2 at Garda HQ.
It also includes 32 specialised ISO clean rooms, designed to the latest international design standards for the recovery, processing and analysis of trace evidence as well as a broad range of labs for FSI’s Chemical Analysis, Physical Analysis and DNA services.
Minister Helen McEntee cuts the ribbon at the official opening of the FSI’s new HQ in March 2024.
Sportslink was formed in 1993 following the merger of the Public Services Sports and Recreation Complex limited (PSSRC) and the Telecom Eireann Staff Sports Club Limited (Telesport), in association with the Civil Service Football League.
PHASED TRANSITION FROM GARDA HQ
FSI took possession of the new building on 3 July 2023 with the first phase of staff inductions and transitions completed on 4 July. Advance teams for some forensic services, as well as support staff, relocated from Garda HQ to set-up and prepare the facility for operations and commission the first set of support equipment for its range of services.
The Facilities Management team was mobilised and various procedures, including security and access control, were put in place. The FSI move to the new facility continued for the rest of that year, while also maintaining services from its Garda HQ base at a time where submissions increased, cases had grown in complexity and the need for court attendances increased
HIGHLIGHTS OF ANNUAL REPORT 2023
The FSI Annual Report for 2023 reflects on a landmark year during which:
• Submissions to FSI increased by 5% overall compared to 2022.
• FSI issued over 21,700 forensic reports.
• FSI assisted in 171 body identification and Missing Person investigations.
• 11 missing persons were identified in 2023 with FSI’s assistance.
• FSI identified Nitazene, a potent synthetic opioid, as responsible for a cluster of overdoses in heroin users in November 2023.
• FSI progressed the introduction of an upgraded AFIS (Automated Fingerprint Identification System).
• FSI progressed the introduction of a new system for automation of DNA processing data.
• FSI secured accreditation to the ISO:2017 17025 Quality Standard for several forensic services in the new building, including drugs testing, fingerprint mark enhancement and comparison, Documents & Handwriting, Blood Pattern Analysis and Damage assessment.
the launch of the Annual Report 2023 on 20 August 2024.
even more over the course of the year.
FSI is undertaking a phased transition of services to Backweston from the current laboratories at Garda HQ and will need to maintain services from current facilities during all stages of the transition process. Commissioning, start-up and validation of analytical instrumentation and support equipment has been required before each forensic service is accredited in Backweston by the Irish National Accreditation Body (INAB).
FSI’s first accreditation assessment in October 2023 focused on the drugs service in addition to the support functions and systems to receive, process and return cases to customers. Ciara McNamee from FSI’s Chemical Analysis Department successfully completed the analysis and issued the first forensic report from the new facility. This was a very significant event in FSI’s history and a major milestone in the transition process.
So, with the Drugs and Fingerprint services now fully operational at Backweston campus and staff associated with these services relocated to the new facility, all remaining services, including trace evidence recovery and analysis will be transferred to the new facility on a phased basis before the end of this year.
The European Academy of Forensic Science (EAFS) – the biggest European forensic science event that takes place every three years – will take place in Dublin on 26-30 May 2025. The four-day event will bring together over 1,200 forensic science practitioners, stakeholders and partners from across the forensic science global community to showcase the depth and breadth of developments in forensic science.
FSI will host the annual meeting of the European Network of Forensic Science Institutes (ENFSI) at the same time. Next year also marks the FSI’s 50-year anniversary, which it will celebrate with the international forensic science community during ‘EAFS 2025’.
Justice Minister Helen McEntee pictured with FSI Director General Chris Enright at
Ministers Helen McEntee and Patrick O’Donovan pictured with former director DR Sheila Wade, Dr Patrick Donovan, the first director of Ireland’s forensic science laboratory and FSI Director Chris Enright in the new purpose-built facility at the Backweston Laboratory Campus.
DUBLIN TO HOST INTERNATIONAL FORENSIC SCIENCE SEMINAR IN 2025
Celebrate and commemorate 200 years of the RNLI saving lives on the island of Ireland with An Post’s RNLI Bicentenary stamps.
Purchase at www.anpost.com/shop and in selected Post O ces nationwide, including all Post O ces located near to RNLI stations.
Particular Sciences Ltd. specialises in technologies for the physical testing of chemicals and of materials in industry & research throughout Ireland and Northern Ireland.
Our mission is to uphold excellence in material characterisation and life sciences technologies and to deliver the highest quality support to customers.
Sales Scientific instruments using advanced technologies from the best manufacturers.
Advice
Ten technical staff with a combined 300 years of relevant experience offer advice on technologies.
Service
Call or email for help with your analysis, data or results. Book a service callout, plan a maintenance visit.
Particular Sciences Ltd; Unit 2 Birch House, Rosemount Business Park, Ballycoolin, Dublin D11T327, Ireland
To celebrate the bicentenary of the RNLI this year, An Post has issued two special stamps and an accompanying limited edition ‘First Day Cover’ envelope depicting the charity’s lifesaving work in Ireland over the last 200 years.
The stamps commemorate and celebrate the current members of the RNLI, and An Post also hopes to inspire a future generation of volunteers. Designed by artist David Rooney, the stamps depict action-filled RNLI rescues at sea.
The designs focus on the moment of rescue between the lifeboat crew member and the person in the water. Both scenes are enhanced using a scraperboard engraving technique and striking colour palette.
On the day of the bicentenary, the launch of the stamps was marked by a gathering of some RNLI lifeboat crew members at An Post’s HQ building (the EXO) beside the River Liffey.
O’Mahony and Lar Sheeran, who were rescued by the RNLI, pictured with crew members Michelle Devereux, Kilmore Quay, and Barry Sharkey, Clogherhead.
Also present were two people who were rescued by the charity, Laura O’Mahony and Lar Sheeran. Laura was saved with her dog Sam in Crosshaven, Co. Cork while Lar was saved by Clogherhead RNLI in 1961. Since it was first founded in 1824, the RNLI has saved 8,357 lives and aided a further 35,477 people in Ireland.
Over 200 years of lifesaving in the RNLI two things remain unchanged – the charity’s reliance on volunteers who give their time and commitment to save others, and
the voluntary contributions from the public which fund the service.
The striking design on the stamp and First Day Cover envelope make a great gift for any occasion and look even better framed. Stamps and First Day Cover envelopes are available online at www.anpost.com/shop (free delivery) and in selected post offices, including all those in RNLI station locations.
Laura
RNLI volunteers Eugene Kehoe, Kilmore Quay, Barry Sharkey, Clogherhead, Michelle Devereux, Kilmore Quay, Jen Harris, Howth, Liam Sherringham, Lough Ree and Nadia Blanchfield, Fethard.
Major Trauma Cases In University Hospital Galway Doubled Over Decade
A study carried out by doctors at University Hospital Galway (UHG) has revealed a doubling of trauma cases amidst an older patient profile emerging over the course of a decade. Based on critical care data from UHG, the study looked at the characteristics of trauma patients, the nature of their injuries and trends in mortality rates over a ten-year period.
Trauma remains one of the commonest causes of death and disability worldwide, according to the lead author of the study. Dr Ciara Hanley, Consultant Anaesthesiologist at University Hospital Galway (UHG), said that over the last decade, “we have seen a significant change in the pattern and demographic of major trauma presenting to our centre, and in those requiring critical care input”.
As part of the study, a review of 709 patients admitted with major trauma* was undertaken between 2010 and 2021. During that ten-year period, trauma cases doubled while patients aged 65 and older accounted for 45.7% of all admissions.
Within this older cohort, 47.5% of patients were aged 80 and over. The study found that most of these older patients had good outcomes overall; most of them underwent surgical intervention and were discharged from critical care within 48 hours.
The study highlights the highquality specialist care delivered by the critical care team in UHG, which is a designated Trauma Unit with Specialist Services (TUSS). A total of 400 patients underwent surgical treatment at the regional site in Galway, while only 51 patients required an inter-hospital transfer for specialist management, not provided in UHG.
Dr Alan Hussey, Clinical Director of Saolta’s Perioperative Directorate, said that the data shows the volume and complexity of trauma work managed by UHG. “Our clinical teams provide an essential, lifesaving service for the entire region while managing an increasing caseload.”
Chris Kane, UHG’s Hospital Manager, said that the study contains many useful learnings “as we strive to deliver excellence in trauma care considering a changing demographic and an increasing incidence of older patients who can
have multiple and complex care needs”. He also acknowledged the “incredible work being carried out by our critical care team who are seeing a sustained increase in demand over recent years”.
NATIONAL TRAUMA NETWORK
Speaking about the national trauma system Dr Hanley said that University Hospital Galway plays a pivotal and unique role within the trauma network in Ireland. “The Major Trauma Audit National Report in 2018 led to the transformation of structures and processes in relation to trauma management in Ireland and delivered a national high-quality graded hub-and-spoke network of trauma services in line with international best practice.”
Dr Ciara Hanley, Consultant
Anaesthesiologist at University Hospital Galway (UHG), is the lead author of the study.
She noted that a key factor in the success of the trauma network will be appropriate and timely funding and resourcing of the hospital to enable it to continue to provide high quality trauma care in line with international best practice. This, she said, will facilitate equity of access to trauma care services, while also maintaining the high-volume practice, and clinical expertise within the region.
Meanwhile, Prof John Laffey, UHG Consultant in Anaesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine, noted that as a trauma unit with specialist services, the hospital is uniquely positioned to deliver exceptional care.
“This is despite the challenges posed by our extensive catchment area and the prolonged transfer time to the
major trauma centre. The doubling of critical care trauma admissions over the past decade underscores the increasing demand for our services, particularly among older adults.”
*Major trauma is a serious injury with the potential of causing death and disability.
Emergency Department at University Hospital Galway (UHG).
Trauma care for elderly patient
‘CPR 4 Schools’ Programme To Teach Lessons
On
How to Restart a Heart!
The Irish Heart Foundation is calling on school principals, deputy principals and school management to participate in the ‘CPR 4 Schools’ programme by training students in the lifesaving skill of CPR during ‘Restart a Heart Day’ on 16 October and throughout the whole school year, so that everyone will be ready to respond in the event of a cardiac emergency.
Every year the ‘Restart a Heart Day’ in October is dedicated to raising awareness about CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) by providing individuals and groups across the globe with an opportunity to learn and practice CPR techniques and lifesaving skills.
The designated day, which takes place this year on Wednesday 16 October, serves as a reminder that anyone can learn basic CPR skills to potentially save a life in the event of a cardiac arrest. ‘Restart a Heart Day’ encourages individuals, schools, organisations, and communities to participate in CPR training and to become equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to respond to emergencies effectively.
To join the Irish Heart Foundation ‘CPR 4 Schools’ programme email schools@irishheart.ie and all experiences can be shared using hashtags #CPR4Schools and #RestartAHeart.
To be ready and prepared for all emergencies, all AEDs should be accessible, charged and have the materials ready to go, according to the Heart Foundation. It recommends placing the device in a cabinet outside school to enable easy access 24/7 by the local community.
“The Irish Heart Foundation’s mission on ‘Restart a Heart Day’ on 16 October is to train as many students in the lifesaving skill of CPR as possible and we need your help!”
The ‘Restart a Heart Day’ initiative was established by the European Resuscitation Council in 2012 as part of the ‘European Restart a Heart’ campaign to increase public awareness about the importance of early CPR and defibrillation in saving lives.
Since its inception, ‘Restart a Heart Day’ has expanded internationally, with countries around the world now recognising the importance of empowering individuals with lifesaving skills.
For details visit https://irishheart.ie/what-is-cpr/cprcourses/cpr-4-schools/
Community ‘Chain of Survival’
The chain of survival consists of five links to saving a life – and each one can be the difference between life and death:
• Immediate recognition of cardiac arrest and contacting the emergency services
• Early CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) with an emphasis on chest compressions
• Rapid defibrillation
• Effective advanced life support
• Integrated post-cardiac arrest care
Croí Calls For National Strategy
To Address Heart Disease
Ireland’s heart and stroke charity Croí has highlighted the need to implement a national strategy by 2025 to tackle cardiovascular disease, which claims the lives of 9,000 people in Ireland each year. The call follows cross community consultation with patient advocates, civil society organisations, professional bodies, plus voluntary and community groups.
Cardiovascular disease remains the biggest annual cause of death and disability globally. In Ireland over 9,000 people lose their lives in Ireland each year due to the disease, and it is also responsible for 40% of all hospital admissions, and 75% of all bed days in hospitals. Despite this, the last national cardiovascular health strategy expired in 2019, with no evaluation or renewal, according to Croí. The heart and stroke charity’s calls to implement a new national strategy, to be in place by 2025 and reviewed every five years, takes centre stage in its new manifesto.
Manifesto marks out five key policy actions:
1. A national plan to promote cardiovascular health and reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease with a major focus on prevention. This national strategy to be in place by 2025 with review and evaluation to take place every five years.
2. Clear, measurable goals, supported by investment in cardiovascular health with a clear accountability framework.
3. A ring-fenced, multi-annual budget for preventive cardiovascular healthcare.
4. Clear ownership and accountability –Croí is seeking the appointment of a designated policy lead in the Department of Health with clear accountability to the Health Minister.
5. An independent statutory multi-stakeholder Prevention Implementation Taskforce.
If implemented, these actions will significantly reduce the rate of cardiovascular disease in the population, not to mention the burden it places on the national healthcare system.
Croí is now calling on politicians to immediately develop a new national strategy on cardiovascular health akin to that in place for cancer; the allocation of a multiannual budget from the Department of Health; the appointment of a department dedicated policy lead, and the establishment of a Cardiovascular Disease Prevention Implementation Taskforce.
Mark O’Donnell, Croí Chief Executive, said that heart
disease and stroke impacts about one in every two families in Ireland, whether through premature death, disability or living with long-term chronic ill health.
“The adage ‘prevention is better than cure’ is true when it comes to cardiovascular disease given that the majority of the burden is preventable,” he noted. “We need to see a shift from the short-term management of acute events, such as heart attack and stroke, to a long-term strategy focused on early detection and risk management. This will reduce the rate of cardiovascular disease and the associated burden on our healthcare system,” he added.
Neil Johnson, Executive Director at the Global Heart Hub, and Croí Special Projects Advisor highlighted the cross-community approach to the development of the manifesto and spoke of the need to ensuring a community care led approach.
“Since the previous strategy expired in 2019, we’ve been operating in a vacuum, with no long-term planning for the disease. As a country with an aging population, it is critical that we take a more proactive and holistic approach to cardiovascular health, so that we can reduce associated illnesses and ensure that everyone in Ireland, regardless of gender, geography or socioeconomic status, has equal access to the necessary healthcare. That’s why our national strategy must take a community care-led approach.”
at the launch of the charity’s manifesto for change.
Neil Johnson, Executive Director at the Global Heart Hub, and Croí Special Projects Advisor, pictured with Mark O’Donnell, Croí Chief Executive, outside Leinster House
There’s more of you in you.
HUGO KEENAN IRELAND AND LEINSTER RUGBY FULLBACK
PROVEN PERFORMANCE NUTRITION FOR OVER 35 YEARS.
MORTGAGE SOLUTIONS FOR PUBLIC SECTOR EMPLOYEES
“ICS Mortgages has been a pillar of the Irish mortgage market since its founding in 1864 to serve civil servants. With a proud history spanning over 160 years, ICS Mortgages deeply understands the needs of its customers, with a special focus on public sector employees.
At ICS Mortgages, exceptional customer service is at the core of our values. Over the years, we have consistently evolved to offer bespoke mortgage solutions that reflect the stability and dedication of those in the public sector.
Understanding the unique financial landscape of public sector employees, we offer a range of benefits designed to make homeownership more accessible and stress-free:
Enhanced Income Assessment: We evaluate your basic income three points up the pay scale, including your most recent pay rise. This forward-looking approach ensures a more accurate reflection of your earning potential.
Comprehensive Allowance Consideration: We recognize the full extent of your income by including 100% of your allowances and overtime from the previous year.
Probation Waiver: New public sector entrants and those promoted internally benefit from a waiver of the probationary period. This unique feature streamlines the mortgage process, acknowledging your stable employment status.
ICS Mortgages’ commitment to public sector employees reflects our deep respect and appreciation for the essential services you provide. We understand the importance of stability and security in both your professional and personal lives, and we strive to offer mortgage solutions that support and enhance your journey to homeownership. Experience the difference of a lender that truly understands and values your unique contributions to society”
HLM Architects Have Designs on Improving Deployment Times
For Emergency Services
HLM Architects, which has delivered a wide range of emergency service facilities across Ireland and the UK over the last 15 years, is now currently working with Kilkenny Fire & Rescue Service, according to Steven Lennon, HLM’s Head of Justice & Emergency Services.
The approach by HLM to emergency services design is operationally led. We have invested time and resource into understanding the most important needs of the services to deliver their work efficiently and safely.
Whilst our emergency services facilities have been praised for their aesthetic design and have won architectural awards, the most pleasing
and important results are the improved deployment and turn-out times.
These improved deployment times have been achieved by understanding each facility’s operational requirements and processes and designing the building around them. A key driver in our success, we believe, is our ability to understand and address the key project issues, and our ethos of teamwork.
HLM is highly experienced in assembling and leading highly skilled professional design teams to create buildings and places, delivered to an agreed programme and budget. This includes a wealth of projects on behalf of public authorities, where we have been able to create solutions to skilfully balance providing the facilities, which deliver the functionality required to deliver the public need, with carefully considered optimisation of the site, delivering value to benefit the public purse.
HLM’s portfolio includes the full range of both new and refurbished deployment and training facilities for fire, police and ambulance services, tri-services facilities, control rooms and call receiving centres, headquarters, decontamination facilities, in addition to specialist maintenance testing and certification workshops.
Carlow’s New Hydro Fire Engine
Fuels Carbon Saving Solutions
An Irish fire service has launched the first fire engine in the world combining state-ofthe-art software with hydrotreated vegetable oil, with firefighters from Carlow climbing aboard the first emergency service vehicle in Ireland, powered by the green fuel HVO, in September.
The world-first ties in with Carlow County Council’s Climate Action Plan to reduce county emissions by 51 per cent and increase energy efficiency in the public sector to 50 per cent by 2030. The €462,000 engine, built locally over six months by local company HPMP Fire Ltd in Tullow, is now ready to respond to emergencies.
Preliminary tests on new features were carried out following the vehicle’s arrival in Carlow town in July and training will be conducted during the first week of September. The vehicle was entirely funded by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage through the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management’s Fire Service Capital Programme.
It is also solar-powered, uses vehicle intelligent software – and in addition to the green fuel, will see its carbon footprint slashed by 95% compared to diesel engines. Its speed, acceleration and overall performance is on par with a regular diesel equivalent. Six crew members can travel in the vehicle, which will initially be allocated to Carlow Fire Station.
“We’re extremely proud to be the first in the world to introduce a new generation of climate-friendly
Carlow’s fire officers Ronan Boyle, Daniel Fitzpatrick, Darrell Hayden and Joseph O'Reilly pictured with Chief Fire Officer Liam Carroll (centre) at Carlow Fire Station for the launch of the first fire engine in the world combining state-of-the-art software with HVO on 28 August.
fire vehicles,” noted Liam Carroll, Carlow’s Chief Fire Officer. “Carlow Fire Station responds to on average 350 emergency incidents annually and it is exciting to also positively contribute to the community through climate action.”
Last year, the fire service collaborated with HPMP Ltd and Acetech Global (Tullamore) to design, develop and deliver the greenest fire appliance in Ireland. HVO is considered a green fuel, as it is manufactured from renewable waste food oils and animal fats, is biodegradable and can reduce emissions by up to 90 per cent.
VEHICLE DIGITAL ALERTING
The vehicle also has several innovative features to reduce fuel consumption and carbon output. Solar panels on the roof provide power to onboard auxiliary batteries which power the blue lights and charges road traffic collision cutting tools.
Cloud-based software enables fire officers to track the vehicle’s information on fuel usage, carbon
and cost savings to improve performance in real-time. Fire officers can monitor and improve battery levels over time, while the intelligent solution can monitor, and aggregate total water and foam used at each fire scene to ensure optimal performance and reduce waste.
A key safety feature is the Vehicle-to-Vehicle Digital Alerting, which signals other road users to the presence of a fire appliance attending an emergency. This provides other road users with more time to slow down, move over and avoid the scene.
“Carlow County Fire Service has been at the forefront of creating innovative carbon saving solutions for many years. Firefighting is a dangerous job where firefighters put their lives and health at risk every day to help protect the public and safety is our top priority.
“Not only will this fire engine combat climate change and improve the standards of our service but its features will make the crucial work of a firefighter that bit safer.”
John Cradock Ltd. Head Office
Bilberry to City Centre Greenway Link, Waterford
Bridge Lift on Grand Canal Greenway Phase 1, Sallins, Co. Kildare
Navan Town Scheme 2030, Contract No. 3
Kilcullen Road Cycle Scheme, Naas, Co. Kildare
Athlone Town Centre Public Realm Enhancement
Kearns Bridge Kilmainham, Dublin 8
Calls Continue For Stronger National Centre For Uk Policing
A new national police headquarters could be on the cards in the UK, with the growing realisation that the current set-up is not working well enough and even the 43 forces structure could be under threat with some quarters warning that smaller forces are facing mergers because they are not “financially sustainable”. Report by Gary Mason.
The need to establish a stronger policing centre in the UK to drive through national functions and deliver shared capabilities was highlighted at this year’s Police Superintendents’ Association conference ‘The Future of Policing to 2030’ held in the Midlands.
The ‘vision’ for what stays and what goes is likely to be set out in a White Paper from the new government. Labour has only had the keys to the Home Office for a few months, but ministers are reportedly alarmed at what they have found in terms of the missing ‘levers’ required to engineer a change in the direction of the police service.
Dr Rick Muir, Director of the Police Foundation, says these missing levers date back to the Tory/Lib Dem coalition government in the austerity era. A ‘bonfire of the quangos’ meant getting rid of the National Police Improvement Agency (NPIA). Then various bits of the agency were
Federation.
UK police in riot gear.
scattered around the system. The Police National Computer (PNC) and Police National Database (PND) went to the Home Office, while the College of Policing was created to take up the NPIA’s role in setting standards.
The Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) was replaced by the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC).
Rick Muir says while ACPO was a “bit odd” in some respects (it was a private company for example) what replaced it was fundamentally weaker.
“Unlike the NPCC, ACPO could hire staff and sign contracts. The NPCC is weak in comparison, a very fragile basis on which to build national policing responsibilities,” he said.
Under Home Secretary Theresa May he said the Home Office “pulled out of policing policy”.
The many Conservative Home Secretaries that followed tried to change that but lacked those allimportant centralised levers. “Labour
has come in and is surprised how difficult the Home Office is to run because it has been gutted of its capability to set objectives for the system,” Dr Muir added.
NATIONAL POLICE AIR SERVICE?
So, what policing has been left with is a group of national portfolio chiefs working on them one day a week and trying to persuade 43 of their colleagues to adopt a common approach. This clearly has not worked for many years.
Dr Muir’s solution is a new National Police HQ, which he says would be “a host for some of the national operational capabilities including the helicopters (National Police Air Service) which no one wants to host and gets kicked around”.
It would also take charge of essential functions such as national police technology procurement and implementation, which he says
Dr Rick Muir, Director of the Police
is “currently a complete mess” and sorely requires “one single source of governance.”
Candidate number one to be put into the new HQ would be the Police Digital Service (PDS) – whose annual technology summit was cancelled at the last minute this year – and the national databases which the Home Office “manages very badly.”
Looking further down the line it could be the case that the National Crime Agency and CT policing also end up in the new headquarters. Dr Muir works outside the service and heads up a think tank but those inside the service who oversee the bodies that emerged from the ashes of the NPIA agree that the current system doesn’t work.
‘BANKRUPT’ FORCES
Gavin Stephens, Chief Constable and Head of the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) said: “The way we are trying to tackle emerging threats was designed 15 years after the Second World War. The structure we have was designed by a Royal Commission that sat between 1960 and 1962.”
He also said the service can no longer afford the existing model – it is more than £3 billion short of being financially resilient in an £18-19 billion sector. Force borrowing has gone up by around £1 billon and a similar figure has been reduced from reserves.
conference if the 43-force model was in serious danger. While not predicting a sudden cull he said some smaller forces are in “serious financial trouble” and at some stage will have to merge with larger neighbours.
The NPCC works under a collaboration agreement with 103 signatories. It has no direct authority to ensure consistency across UK policing – everything is done by negotiation.
POSTCODE LOTTERY
CC Stephens said it is clear the service needs a stronger national policing centre. “I don’t think it is tenable anymore that if you are a victim of a serious sexual assault in South Wales compared to say, Cleveland, there might be different technologies and capabilities that will determine whether your offender is going to get detected or not.”
Rick Muir was asked at the PSA
Vetting NPCC.
National Police Air Service.
Under current arrangements most of the money for policing flows locally and there is a negotiation over what gets back to the centre. Most of the work done by chiefs who sit on the NPCC gets done in their voluntary time. Chiefs chair the 13 NPCC coordinating committees and two more have recently been added – one on prevention and one on science and innovation.
“If you think of some of the threats coming down the track, we will need to be well ahead with industry on prevention, not having 43 different conversations,” CC Stephens said.
CERTAINTY AND SCALE
Gavin Stephens said the need for joined-up data and intelligence was evident during the recent disorder. He says over those frenetic 10 days “policing did a remarkable job” in a short space of time but there were issues.
“We had to work with social media platforms overseas whose automated bots were generating harmful content to our communities. We also had to connect the intelligence systems in counter terrorism, the NCA and regional organised crime units and make that product available to colleagues who were investigating individual cases on the streets of Hartlepool or Rotherham. The connectivity in the system was not there and we had to do it at pace. We got there but it wasn’t as easy as it could have been.”
Sir Andy Marsh, Chief Constable and CEO of the College of Policing, said innovation in terms of technology is not just about buying more kit. Hampshire was the first major police force in the world to
introduce body worn video (BWV) following a successful local pilot.
While BWV is now widespread, he said it is not “fully optimised” adding that some forces “wear it like an expensive piece of jewellery”. He said that the Hampshire pilot was the idea of one individual officer as a response to the growth in citizen journalism.
BLIZZARD OF RISK
Bringing that bang up to date with the events that sparked the recent rioting CC Marsh said there was a case for a more imaginative use of BWV. “Should we have been more proactive in releasing BWV footage to chase down rumours on a good day and a bad day to prevent serious violence and disorder? I would say that we should.”
Marsh said that when he was Chief Constable of Avon and Somerset a “bright spark” suggested in 2017 that the force join up all its data to make better decisions. This involved ‘federating’ up to 30 databases and using advanced predictive analytics.
“What he did effectively was turn a blizzard of risk and all the fear that goes with that into our greatest asset,” he noted. “This gave us unique insight but why is it that the [whole] service has not yet harnessed its data? As a sector we are stunningly naïve about that.”
Not having that insight has a harmful knock-on effect on some
of policing’s core business areas. CC March said that if neighbourhood policing is “a proxy for our share price” the service is not doing very well. He said one of his biggest regrets before joining CoP was not paying more attention to the evidence base on this. “For a service that should be world class at understanding and using evidence we are stunningly resistant to using it.”
That evidence shows that the most significant driver of public confidence is the ability to which people believe their local police are tackling the crime and ASB that concern them most. He said the service had neglected that which is why its “share price” has been falling.
He also said the service invests the least amount of CPD in its frontline people compared to most other professions. CoP has designed a new product – the Neighbourhood Pathway – in order to ‘professionalise’ neighbourhood policing and the skills that are required.
SPECIALISTS OR GENERALISTS?
CoP received £53.5 million in central funding in 2014. This year it will get £30.5 million. Like Gavin Stephens, CC Marsh argues that the funding to get things done centrally – such as improving training and skills – is “totally out of kilter” compared to local resourcing.
Does that mean the service should focus on an “expertise pathway” all the
National Police Chiefs Council Gavin Stephens.
Andy Marsh, CEO of UK College of Policing.
way up the ranks including chief officer level? Andy Marsh gave a very personal view based on his own career. “I never moved swiftly through the ranks – I spent at least three years in each one. I also spent a fair bit of time as a detective. I may not have been the best interviewer or statement taker but as leader I knew I had to create an environment where other people could be very good at that.
“I never thought I’d get to be a chief constable but perhaps one of the reasons I did was wide experience – for example as an SIO running an anti-corruption unit and as a BCU commander for five years.
I honestly thought as a BCU commander that chief officers were buffoons and didn’t know an awful lot about what they were talking about.”
However, he said the closer he got to chief officers the more he realised they needed the help and support of those doing the job at the coal face and “it was probably quite difficult managing someone like me”.
CarlowBuild
Innovation Manufactured
The police service may have some big decisions to make in the next few months. Both Gavin Stephens and Rick Muir believe a White Paper is imminent. Once it is published there will be an opportunity for those within the service and not about to retire to have their say. UK policing has been here many times before of course. However, given the challenges it faces maybe genuine change is on the way.
This is a synopsis of an article by Gary Mason, Editor of Police Oracle. https://www.policeoracle.com/
CarlowBuild manfactures
a hybrid modular building system for the delivery of large scale residential, commercial and departmental type buildings.
He added: “Were it not for the wide base of experience I would never have got to be a chief. Policing has suffered from ‘you can’t take a step forward unless you know everything, and you are the best at it.’ He stressed that is not to say the service doesn’t need people who are the very best in their field –firearms command is one example; public order is another – but he said policing also needed “generalists who are able to lead across the service.”
CarlowBuild is part of the Burren Precast Group and a sister company of Carlow Concrete, and as such has the resources and infrastructure to meet the high demands of customers in relation to quality of service and product.
The organisation benefits from a highly experienced technical team and has the technical expertise, the flexibility in production methods and the resources to interpret, design, manufacture and assemble to the highest standards, bringing modern methods of construction through the benefits of onsite construction, building information modelling (BIM) and highly experienced installation teams.
For a day to end in the right way, a good pizza is all you need. Open 7 days 5pm - 11pm From 1pm Sat & Sun
Firefighters Cut in 12 EU Countries
Despite Rising Climate Risk
The number of firefighters was cut in a dozen EU member states last year despite a rising risk of fire caused by climate change, an analysis of new EU data by the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC) has found.
Eurostat figures published have shown that there were 362,400 firefighters in the EU in 2023, which was an increase of 3,200 on the previous year. However, a look behind that headline figure reveals a series of cuts to fire services in 12 member states – most of the countries for which Eurostat has published figures.
They include countries which experienced huge wildfires in 2023, such as Greece, Italy and Cyprus. The cuts also coincided with the second hottest year recorded in European history. The number of firefighters was cut for the second year running in Germany, Hungary, Romania and Sweden. The ETUC is calling on the EU and member states not to make the situation worse by returning to austerity.
The European Commission recently announced that it is opening an ‘Excessive Deficit Procedure’ for 25% of member states, which risks pushing them towards new spending cuts. Instead, the EU should invest in a just transition to a green economy, which would ensure we tackle climate change while creating quality
jobs and properly funding our public services.
Responding to the findings, ETUC General Secretary Esther Lynch said: “Cutting the number of firefighters at a time when the climate crisis is increasing the risk of fires is not what is needed and irresponsible. These cuts put at risk the safety of the public, our environment and the remaining firefighters, who are now expected to tackle more frequent and severe blazes with fewer resources and less rest.
Table 1: Member states where firefighter numbers were cut between 2022 and 2023
“EU leaders cannot claim to be committed to keeping Europe safe from the increased risk of fires while pushing countries towards austerity measures which leave public services understaffed.
“The climate crisis requires us to increase public investment to properly fund our services and deliver a green economy that creates quality jobs."
EPSU General Secretary Jan Willem Goudriaan said: “Reducing the number of firefighters at a critical time, when climate change is increasing the number of fires, is putting the workforce at risk.
“Today firefighters are faced with wildfires even during winter, such as in Sweden, and is something that has never been seen before. The exposure to PFAS has significantly increased and yet, despite promises to reinforce the workforce, we are seeing the opposite.
Source: Labour Force Survey 2024 and Labour Force Survey 2023
“The recent increase in fired and floods across Europe is not just a natural catastrophe but were caused by humans. Governments are making it impossible for these catastrophes to be contained or stopped by significantly decreasing the workforce, therefore causing both increased exposure to the few firefighters working and increased psychosocial risks.”
• The Alzheimer Society of Ireland is the leading dementia specific service provider in Ireland.
• The Alzheimer Society of Ireland works across the country in the heart of local communities providing dementia specific services and supports and advocating for the rights and needs of all people living with dementia and their carers.
• Our vision is an Ireland where people on the journey of dementia are valued and supported.
The Alzheimer Society of Ireland, National Office, Temple Road, Blackrock, Co Dublin. A94 N8Y0
• A national non-profit organisation, The Alzheimer Society of Ireland advocates, empowers and champions the rights of people living with dementia and their communities to quality support and services.
• The Alzheimer Society of Ireland also operates the Alzheimer National Helpline offering information and support to anyone affected by dementia on 1800 341 341.
The Dementia Carers Campaign Network (DCCN) celebrated its 10th anniversary in Dublin recently, with the Minister of State for Mental Health and Older People, Mary Butler TD, joining the Alzheimer Society of Ireland’s DCCN to celebrate the advocacy group's decade-long commitment in supporting the carers of people living with dementia.
The event at the Mansion House highlighted the network’s work since its inception in 2014. The DCCN is a group of people who have experience caring for and supporting those living with dementia. The group aims to be a voice of and for dementia carers in Ireland and to raise awareness of issues affecting families living with dementia.
Minister Mary Butler said: “Over the past decade, the network has become a powerful voice for those caring for people living with the condition, as the Alzheimer Society of Ireland continues to work with people affected by dementia in such a meaningful manner.”
Helena Quaid, DCCN Chair, said: “Our lives are impacted by caring for our loved ones, and dementia policy and supports must recognise that. The 10th anniversary celebration honours the past and looks to the future, as the DCCN remains committed to raising awareness of the issues facing dementia carers in Ireland.”
Clodagh Whelan, ASI’s Advocacy Manager, said that through the ongoing work and development of the network, the organisation has ensured that the voices of dementia carers continue to be heard and valued.
“It is not easy to share private and sensitive details of your family’s life, but in doing so DCCN members have challenged stigma, and most importantly driven increased funding for dementia supports. By resourcing the Dementia Carers Campaign Network and the Irish Dementia Working Group we can ensure the lived experience of dementia is at the heart of dementia policy and practice in Ireland.”
The Alzheimer Society of Ireland provides dementia-specific services, supporting and advocating for the rights and needs of all people living with dementia and their carers. The ASI’s National Helpline 1800-341-341 offers information and support to anyone affected by dementia. For further information email at or visit www.alzheimer.ie
• With an estimated 64,000 people with dementia in Ireland, that number is set to increase to over 150,000 by 2045.*
• There are 11,000 new cases of dementia in Ireland each year; anyone can get dementia – even people in their 30s/40s/50s.**
• Dementia is an umbrella term used to describe a range of conditions which cause changes and damage to the brain.
• There is currently no cure. Dementia is both a health and a social issue that requires a community response.
• Most people with dementia (63%) live at home in the community. Over 180,000 people in Ireland are currently or have been carers for a family member or partner with dementia, with many more providing support and care in other ways.
• One in 10 people diagnosed with dementia in Ireland is under 65.
• The overall cost of dementia care in Ireland is just over €1.69bn per annum; 48% of this is attributable to family care; 43% is by residential care; formal health and social care services contribute only 9% to the total cost.
*Alzheimer Europe (2020) Dementia in Europe Yearbook 2019 ‘Estimating the prevalence of dementia in Europe’.
**Pierce, T., O’Shea, E. and Carney P. (2018) Estimates of the prevalence, incidence and severity of dementia in Ireland.
Members of the Dementia Carers Campaign Network (DCCN) pictured in the Mansion House to mark ten years of advocacy in Ireland.
DEMENTIA – FACTS & FIGURES
Ukraine Medics & Healthcare Workers
Trained To Treat War Victims
A researcher from Coventry University has played her part in the humanitarian effort in Ukraine by training healthcare workers and rehabilitation specialists as they care for those injured and impacted by the war with Russia.
From the very moment the invasion began, Dr Agnieszka Lewko, Assistant Professor at Coventry University’s Research Centre for Healthcare and Communities, wanted to do something to help. In less than a month she reached out and collaborated with other experts to host an online course in first aid for medics and healthcare workers on the ground in Ukraine.
The course was arranged through a collaboration with the Ukrainian Physical Therapists Association and Ukrainian Society of Ergotherapists and was soon followed by live webinars in amputee management and rehabilitation.
A programme for physiotherapists working in intensive care units was then developed as part of the charitable foundation Patients of Ukraine’s War Trauma Rehabilitation in Ukraine Initiative.
This resulted in Dr Lewko and other healthcare professionals visiting the city of Lviv to host two days of practical training, before a group of 12 physiotherapists and rehabilitation leaders from Ukraine visited Coventry University.
They took part in simulation training on physiotherapy in intensive care and attended an ‘excellence symposium’ organised by the Centre for Care Excellence for Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health – a collaboration between Coventry University and University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire (UHCW) – as well as a clinical visit to the hospital.
CLINICAL PRACTICE COLLABORATION
The Ukrainian visitors also presented their own work at a symposium organised by the Coventry University’s Research Centre for Healthcare and Communities. Dr Lewko said that the unexpected outbreak of the invasion on Ukraine created a feeling of disbelief and shock to see pictures of civilian casualties.
Physiotherapists and rehabilitation specialists from Ukraine taking part in simulation training in an intensive care setting at Coventry University.
“From this, collaborations emerged through education, clinical practice, leadership and research which eventually saw us supporting rehabilitation specialists in Ukraine online and visiting
Dr Agnieszka Lewko, Assistant Professor at Coventry University’s Research Centre for Healthcare and Communities, pictured with Ukrainian physiotherapists and rehabilitation specialists during a training exercise.
Ukraine to provide practical training, before a group of Ukrainian physiotherapists came here.
“The last two years have showed that we are stronger together; leaders in education, clinical practice and research supporting our Ukrainian rehabilitation colleagues to improve patients’ care in this horrendous situation. We learned a lot from each other through this journey and continue working together to improve patients' care and access to high-quality rehabilitation globally.”
‘Patients of Ukraine’ is focusing on developing the infrastructure for all healthcare facilities and rebuilding some facilities damaged or destroyed since the war began. With support of international collaborators, the organisation can also focus on the accessibility and availability of medical and rehabilitation equipment, and not just drugs.
Leading the Patients of Ukraine’s War Trauma Rehabilitation in Ukraine initiative, Anastasiia Boichuk says that the number of children born prematurely has doubled since the war started, meaning there is a much bigger number of children now needing rehabilitation and not only because of war trauma but because of war itself.
“We're extremely grateful for the support from Dr Lewko and Coventry University. With this help we should be able to expand our network of rehabilitation service providers, develop our workforce and help to improve and develop the existing rehabilitation professionals. We will also be able to continue and develop our research projects,” she said.
For further information on the Patients of Ukraine initiative visit https://patients.org.ua/en/
Best wishes to the Emergency Services from Tracey Edwards, Principal, Sinéad Kehoe and Bridget Cadogan, Deputy Principals, Staff and Students in Ramsgrange Community School.
www.ramsgrangecommunityschool.ie
Tracey Edwards, Principal, Ramsgrange Community School, Ramsgrange, New Ross, Co. Wexford. E: rcs.office@rcswexford.ie
Northern Ireland’s new road safety strategy provides a framework for government and other road safety stakeholders to establish their own road safety plans and recognises that a collaborative approach is required.
‘The ‘Road Safety Strategy for Northern Ireland to 2030’ was rolled out in September at Crescent Link Fire Station in Derry by Infrastructure Minister John O’Dowd who that the strategy will set the direction for future road safety policies and actions. “The Executive recognises the importance of road safety and to everyone to take care on the roads by supporting the ‘Share the Road to Zero’ road safety initiative,” the Minister noted.
Northern Ireland’s Chief Fire & Rescue Officer Aidan Jennings said: “In 2023, firefighters attended 723 road traffic collisions and rescued 201 people. We all have a role to play in making every journey safe to ease the pain, loss and suffering to individuals, families and communities.”
An action plan has also been developed by the Department with road safety partners to support the strategy. This includes ten strategic interventions, identified as having the potential to create the biggest impact on road safety.
Evidence shows that more than 95% of road deaths are due to human error – including careless or inattentive driving, inappropriate speed for the road or the conditions, while drink and drug driving account for most deaths and serious injuries.
In 2023, 71 people lost their lives on the north’s roads –
Pictured at the launch of ‘Road Safety Strategy for Northern Ireland to 2030’ (l-r): Michael Bloomfield, Chief Executive of NI Ambulance Service; Aidan Jennings, Chief Fire & Rescue Officer of NIFRS, Minister John O’Dowd and PSNI’s Supt Jonathan Wilson.
the highest number of deaths for eight years. This year’s death toll is currently 41.
Minister O’Dowd said that the PSNI, NI Ambulance Service and NI Fire and Rescue Service have joined his department, along with colleagues from the Department of Justice and the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, to form a new Strategic Road Safety Forum, to look at collaboration to improve outcomes.
NORTHERN IRELAND POLICING BOARD UNDER REVIEW
An independent review of the Northern Ireland Policing Board (NIPB) is scheduled to conclude by the end of December, before the findings are released in the New Year.
Leading the review is Paul Sweeney, former permanent secretary in the Northern Ireland Civil Service, will be supported by Dr John Topping, senior lecturer in criminology at Queen’s University Belfast, acting as independent expert advisor.
A review of the NIPB was initially announced by the former chair of the Board, following a series of policing-related incidents.
However, Northern Ireland’s Justice Minister Naomi Long has always preferred an independent review be carried out. “I thank Paul Sweeney and John Topping for agreeing to take it forward. I look forward to receiving the findings and recommendations of the review in due course.
“The review will be tightly focused and delivered in a timely manner to conclude by the end of December. It will primarily involve members and staff of the NI Policing Board, the PSNI and representative bodies, and the Department of Justice.”
Northern Ireland’s Justice Minister Naomi Lon
UK WILDFIRE CONFERENCE IGNITES GLOBAL INTEREST
The leading lights from the world of wildfire have been announced as the keynote speakers at this year’s UK Wildfire Conference in Aberdeen on 1213 November.
Keynote addresses will be given by Marc Castellnou, Commander in the Catalan Fire Service; Prof Tiago Oliveira, Agency for Integrated Rural Fire Management; Val Charlton, Landworks South Africa; Francesca Osowska, NatureScot; and Jim Savege, Aberdeenshire Council.
The two-day event will also feature presentations from sector experts from Norway, Switzerland, The Netherlands and France as well as UK specialists such as Sarah Baker of the University of Exeter, Douglas Kelley of the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Robin Pakeman of the James Hutton Institute, Cathy Smith of the University of London, Andreas Heinemeyer from the University of York and Tia Crouch of The National Trust.
The line-up of speakers, researchers and resilience experts was announced by the conference host, The Scottish Wildfire Forum, together with event facilitators The Heather Trust.
The conference will focus on the global perspective regarding wildfire and its mitigation, and how to tackle these issues in the UK. Meanwhile, break-out sessions will offer delegates an opportunity to benefit from a series of talks and interactive discussion.
Exploring the theme of ‘Resilience in a Changing World’, the conference will acknowledge the challenges (and opportunities) that the climate emergency, land use change, emerging science and the behaviours, expectations and attitudes of the public bring to an already complex situation.
For further information visit https://wildfire2024.co.uk/
It is anticipated that the Wildfire Conference will attract up to 300 delegates from a diversity of backgrounds and interest groups, appealing not just to firefighters, but also land managers, regulatory and enforcement agencies, academics, environmental groups, community leaders, planners and more. (Source: International Fire Fighter)
‘MARTYN’S LAW’ BEGINS PASSAGE THROUGH PARLIAMENT
Martyn’s Law – formally known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill –will place a duty on those responsible for premises and public events to take appropriate action to strengthen public safety.
The Home Secretary paid tribute to the tireless campaigning by Figen Murray whose son Martyn died in the Manchester Arena bombing in 2017, and
confirmed that legislation to increase preparedness for, and protection from, terrorist attacks at public venues has now started its journey through Parliament.
It has been a long time in the making, with a 200-mile walk by Figen Murray and her supporters ending at Number 10 shortly before the general election in May. She met Sir Keir Starmer when he was the Leader of the Opposition and now that he is Prime Minister, she said that he and his government have made good on his promise to bring in Martyn’s Law.
She had thanked all those who have played a part in getting the bill to this stage, and especially the Prime Minister, whom she said gave her his word that he would act quickly to introduce Martyn’s Law. “We are one step closer to making public spaces safer for everyone. It is also hugely important for my family that Martyn’s Law will be on the statute book ahead of the next anniversary of Martyn’s death,” she noted.
Under the new law, those responsible for premises will be legally required to fulfil ‘necessary but proportionate steps’, based on the capacity of the venue, to help keep the public safe. It will take a tiered approach, linked to the size of the venue, how many people will be there and the activity taking place, ‘making sure undue burdens are not placed on small businesses.’
Figen Murray and her husband Stuart meeting with Sir Keir Starmer in May 2024.
AVIATION REFUELLING MAINTENANCE SPECIALISTS
T: 01 8462777 E: james@kccommercials.com
T: 01 8462538 E: brendan@kccommercials.com
M: 087 127 8025 E: info@kcccomercials.com
M: 087 255 1901 E: info@tanksafesolutions.ie
Ryan’s Locksmiths
key to your
Fast, Reliable & professional Service with over 50 Years experience Ryan’s Locksmiths provide locksmith solutions for homes and businesses in Limerick and the surrounding area. We also provide auto locksmith services for car lockout emergencies.
NORTH WALES POLICE EXPANDS USE OF FACIAL RECOGNITION TECHNOLOGY
North Wales Police is set to use live facial recognition technology at specific events across the region following its successful deployment earlier this year at Holyhead Port, and will now work in collaboration with colleagues from South Wales Police.
Chief Supt Mark Williams, North Wales Police’s head of operational support services, said, “Our primary aims in using this technology are to keep the public safe and to help us identify serious offenders who pose a significant risk to our communities.”
A survey completed on behalf of the Information Commissioner in 2021 indicated that 82% of respondents indicated that they were in support of the police using live facial recognition (LFR). Williams said he believed that public support would continue to support it. “We will work to use all available methods and technologies to keep our communities safe and will always ensure that our use of LFR is legal, ethical and legitimate,” he added.
LFR compares a live camera feed of faces in a focused area against a predetermined watchlist in real-time. It is used to locate persons of interest by generating an alert when a possible match is found.
Before using LFR, a watchlist is created of persons that are wanted by the police and courts. The watchlist may also include people who may pose a risk of harm to themselves or others. People who are not included on a watchlist cannot be identified. When a possible match is identified an officer will compare the camera image to the person they see and decide whether or not to speak to them. An explanation will always be given to the person as to why they have been selected. They will be given an informational leaflet with contact details if they have further questions. The images and biometric data relating to people who don’t cause an alert are automatically and immediately deleted.
SCOTTISH POLICE ENFORCE NATIONAL CONTRACT FOR BODY WORN VIDEO CAMERAS
Scotland’s police force has agreed a three-year national contract to implement body worn video (BWV) cameras for frontline officers and staff, which will cover 10,500 Home Office-approved BWV cameras and supporting back-office systems.
Motorola Solutions UK Ltd has secured the £13.3m contract and work has now started to design, build and implement the new system, with 10,500 VB400 cameras to be rolled out on a phased basis across Scotland.
Police Scotland is the last major police force in the UK to roll out BWVs for all operational officers. The national roll-out was a key recommendation of Lady Elish Angiolini’s independent review of police complaints in 2020. The
force’s national public consultation on BWV received more than 9,000 responses and showed overwhelming support for its introduction, with 81% agreeing that it would increase public confidence in policing.
Every frontline uniformed police officer including special constables will be expected to wear a video camera on their uniform while on duty and to activate it when using police powers, whether it be a stop and search, an arrest of a suspect or executing a search warrant.
Police staff in custody suites will also use the videos when interacting with people in custody. Officers and custody staff will begin using BWVs once the technical infrastructure is established, operational processes embedded, and training is complete.
Scotland’s Deputy Chief Constable Jane Connors said: “The introduction of BWVs will transform policing in Scotland. It will also improve the quality of evidence presented in court to deliver faster justice for victims by increasing early guilty pleas and reducing time spent at court for victims, witnesses and police officers.
“We know there is strong public and partner support for body worn video in Scotland and we will continue to explain policing’s use of this important technology, including assurance around data privacy and human rights considerations. We also want to maximise the benefits of body worn videos for the wider criminal justice system to improve efficiencies and experiences for victims.”
According to Police Scotland, the new system is expected to work smoothly in areas with lower quality network connections, including rural locations, and it is investing in its network capability to support this.
(Source: Police Oracle)
Facial Recognition Technology
Body cams for Scottish Police
Glenroyal Hotel & Leisure Centre
The Glenroyal Hotel and Leisure club is located in the
Maynooth, Co Kildare
Email: info@glenroyal.ie
Tel: +353(0)16290909 Web: www.glenroyal.ie
The Lakeside Hotel would like to offer a discount of 10% across their rates for 2023 for all emergency service personal, as our way of saying thank you for your tireless efforts.
To avail of this discount rate please visit www.lakesidehotel.ie and enter the discount code “Annual23” at checkout.
INVESTIGATION FINDS POLICE NEED TO CHANGE RESPONSE TO HELP VICTIMS OF STALKING
Significant changes are needed to improve the police response to reports of stalking, an investigation into a police super-complaint has found, noting that often these cases are not taken seriously enough, and the quality of investigations is inconsistent.
Keynote The investigation into the Suzy Lamplugh Trust’s super-complaint was undertaken by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) and the College of Policing (CoP).
The report details 29 recommendations to ensure better support for victims, including:
• Steps chief constables should take to improve the quality of stalking investigations
• Change the criminal law on stalking to make it easier for police to understand and apply.
• Make stalking protection orders simpler and easier for the police to use; and
• Ensure police and support services work more closely together to improve the service provided to victims.
His Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Constabulary Andy Cooke said, “We have previously recommended that stalking is prioritised by forces and the wider criminal justice system.
However, investigations are often not effective enough and all the risks to victims are not being identified. While examples of positive practice were found, this progress is not significant enough to achieve the outcomes all victims deserve.”
Deputy Chief Constable Paul Mills, National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for stalking, said that the criminal justice system must recognise the damage and harm perpetrators cause and protect victims at the earliest opportunity. “Police forces with integrated multi-agency models to respond to reports of stalking have seen the best success at disrupting perpetrator behaviour and safeguarding victims.
“We must continue to drive best practice nationally across forces and ensure they have the right skills and resources to identify and investigate reports and provide support for victims through the criminal justice process.
“We are carefully working through the recommendations and will work closely with our partners across the criminal justice system and beyond to further improve and standardise the service victims receive.”
POLICE DOGS NOW IN LINE OF FIRE – ANIMAL WELFARE CHARITY
Police dogs should be replaced with safer modern policing technology, according to Peta (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) after animals were “burned” and “hit with bricks” during widespread violence in the UK this summer.
The animal rights charity has called on the Metropolitan Police commissioner to phase out the dogs and said that “unlike human officers, they did not choose to enlist or put their lives on the line.”
The UK-based group said: “Over the years, we have also read reports of dogs who have been punched or kicked or whose eyes have been gouged during altercations. The risk of injury while working, dogs used by the police are vulnerable because too often their wellbeing comes second to other priorities.
It added that the “continuous restocking” of police dogs is contributing to the UK’s “already considerable homeless animal crisis” where
more than 100,000 are without a home at any given time. Hundreds of puppies are bred to be used by UK forces each year, with West Midlands Police alone holding 40 females and producing about 100 puppies annually, Peta claimed.
The Met has had a dedicated dog section since 1946 but the range of roles and uses for PDs has developed over time. From 1958 it was decided that police dogs should not be used specifically as part of public order tactics to police political demonstrations due to fears that they would panic large crowds or be overrun. Other forces have pointed out that not all dogs who start training go on to be used in operational roles.
Northumbria Police says that many under 18 months old have health conditions or behaviour needs that prevent them from completing training, and they may “simply be better suited to life as a family pet with people who can provide the time, care and commitment they need”.
Peta’s Vice President of Programmes, Elisa Allen, said they’re urging the Met to end the use of dogs and adopt modern methods of maintaining law and order that don’t subject animals to a lifetime of violence.
FIREFIGHTER CHALLENGE ADDED TO WORLD POLICE & FIRE GAMES 2025
The TFT® Firefighter Challenge, for the first time in its 33-year history, will be hosted as an official sport during the 2025 World Police & Fire Games, which take place in Birmingham, Alabama on 27 June-6 July.
Russell A. Jackson, Chief Executive Officer of the First Responder Institute, said: “This incredible sporting event gives firefighters around the world an opportunity to experience the best of what both organisations offer.”
"Bringing the Southeast Regional Classic to compete alongside the world's first responders will be an incredibly exciting first-time addition to the WPFG," noted DJ Mackovets, CEO of the 2025 World Police & Fire Games.
Firefighters in the SERVPRO® Firefighter Challenge League (FCL) will converge in the Greater Birmingham Area to compete in the 2025 Southeast Regional Classic of the TFT® Firefighter Challenge Championship Series, during the BHM 2025 World Police & Fire Games.
“Many of our incredible firefighter athletes train yearround to not only perform at their best in this competition but to also be at their best when responding to a 911 emergency. This is their opportunity to have fun, earn some bragging rights for their fire department, and to help inspire the next generation of firefighters,” Jackson added.
The World Police and Fire Games (WPFG) are an Olympic-style competition with thousands of athletes representing first responders from different countries across the world. This includes law enforcement, firefighters and officers from corrections, probation, border
protection, immigration and customs.
The Games are held biennially and include over 60 sports in the official games programme. The Games are governed by the California Police Athletic Federation (CPAF), the host city, and the WPFG Board of Directors.
The first World Police & Fire Games were held in 1985 in San Jose, California, to offer the same variety of sports, and the same high calibre of venues, officials and athletic achievement as the original California Police Games, but on a global scale. Since then, WPFG has been hosted several times in the United States and also in different countries including Australia, Canada, China, Northern Ireland, Spain, and Sweden.
For further information on the World Police & Fire Games 2025 visit https://bhm2025.com/
The size and scope of the World Police & Fire Games continue to grow with a steady increase in the numbers attending in addition to the number of countries involved. While attendance averages about 9,000, the 2011 WPFG in New York holds the current attendance record where over 16,000 athletes competed in 67 sports from almost 70 countries.
POLAND BEEFS UP MILITARY DEFENCES WITH PURCHASE OF NEW PATRIOT LAUNCHERS
Poland's Defence Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz signed a deal with US defence company Raytheon to produce dozens of Patriot missile launchers, described as a step towards "strengthening Polish security".
Representatives from Polish arms company Huta Stalowa Wola and US defence contractor Raytheon have signed an agreement to produce 48 Patriot launchers for the Polish army. The agreement, guaranteeing the formation of six Patriot missile batteries, was signed between company
Poland’s Defence Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz has lauded the deal as proof of "our government betting so strongly on security”.
representatives in the town of Sochaczew. The contract stipulates Huta Stalowa Wola will manufacture the weaponry scheduled to be delivered starting in 2027.
Poland’s Defence Minister Wladyslaw KosiniakKamysz lauded the deal as proof of "our government betting so strongly on security”.0"We are investing in the Polish defence industry, in the armed forces of the republic for the security of us and our allies".
It comes as Warsaw politicians, such as Poland’s Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski, have repeatedly called for reinforced defences, with fears that Russia's war in Ukraine could spill over into Europe’s eastern countries like Poland, as well as Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia.
US Ambassador to Warsaw Mark Brzezinski said the production of these weapons is emblematic of the "intrinsic trust between Poland and America…and this defence system intercepts missile and drones, it protects cities and critical infrastructure”.
He added: “For Poland, the Patriot enhances not only our ability to protect the skies above NATO territory, but also our military interoperability". The weapons system is a "powerful deterrent" for NATO's 700-km eastern flank, Brzezinski noted. Of this stretch, Poland shares a 230-km border with Russia. (Source: Euro News)
EUROPEAN FIRE SAFETY AWARD 2025 NOMINATIONS NOW
OPEN
Nominations are now for the European Fire Safety Award 2025 which serves to reward the best community fire safety projects in Europe focused on raising fire safety awareness, changing people’s behaviour and inspiring education on fire safety.
The ceremony for the European Fire Safety Award for 2025 will take place during the 8th International Safety Education Seminar in Levi, Lapland, Finland on 12-13 March 2025.
The award – a joined initiative of the European Fire Safety Alliance (EuroFSA) and the Federation of European Fire Officers (FEU) – is granted every two years. It was first presented in 2019 in the European Parliament as an integral part of the very first edition of the European Fire Safety Week.
The regulations and application form for projects are on www.europeanfiresafetyalliance.org
For questions, email the EuroFSA secretariat at info@eurofsa.org
NEXT GENERATION 112 AND AI IN EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS
The European Emergency Numbers Association (EENA) will host a two-day seminar in December to highlight the key advancements around Next Generation 112 (NG112) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the future of emergency communications.
The seminar is scheduled to take place on 4-5 December in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Day 1 will explore the transition to NG112, covering the entire implementation process, including roadmaps and critical elements such as accessibility considerations.
Day 2 will focus on the role of AI in emergency communications, featuring insights from EENA’s AI special project and presentations on practical AI solutions for emergency communications.
There will also be a discussion on the practical use of AI in Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs), such as background noise elimination, detection and triage,
patient transports and mission-critical communications. Registration is now open. Email registration@eena.org to participate on both days of the seminar. The fee is €100 for EENA members Full draft of two-day programme.
REGISTRATION NOW OPEN FOR EENA 2025 CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION
Registration is now open for the EENA 2025 Conference & Exhibition, which takes place in Helsinki, Finland, on 9-11 April 2025.
The EENA conference programme will explore topics related to the implementation of EU legislation requirements, AI applications, NG112 standards, operational topics, and much more. The EEA exhibition will offer delegates the opportunity to explore, test, and discuss the latest products in the emergency services field.
Get ready for three days packed with insightful discussions, cutting-edge technologies and networking opportunities. This event has something for everyone — whether you're an emergency services professional, researcher, solution provider, mobile network operator, or
EU institution representative. You'll experience informative sessions on a wide range of industry-relevant topics, from frontline emergency personnel to innovative solutions.
For further information and updates visit https://eenaconference.org/registration/
Next Generation 112 and AI Seminar
SIXTH EUROPEAN FIRE SAFETY WEEK 2024
This year's European Fire Safety Week (1822 November) is one of a range of events designed by the European Fire Safety Alliance to enhance fire safety and drive the implementation of the European Fire Safety Action Plan.
The European Fire Safety Week 2024 (EUFSW24) will bring together EU decision-makers, fire officers, researchers, industry experts and other stakeholders in a series of workshops, webinars, and discussions. Some of the events will be held in person in Brussels, while some will be hosted online.
Key topics will include:
• Enhancing domestic life safety
• How to protect our European cultural heritage?
• Implementation of fire and electrical safety measures under the new EPBD
• Fire safety and sustainability
• Fire-safe upholstered furniture and mattresses – a new approach
• The importance of flame retardants in modern society
• Overcoming the challenges with the fire safety of BEVs in covered car parks
• Smoke Alarms – next steps to increasing their use in domestic homes in Europe
To kick off the new term for the European Parliament and the European Commission, the Alliance will host a highlevel discussion on fire safety with key EU policymakers at the European Parliament.
The EUFSW24 will conclude with the European Smoke Alarm Day, an information campaign under the hashtag #smokealarmssavelives to raise awareness about the importance of smoke alarms in domestic homes
For further information visit www.firesafetyweek.eu
For further information on the World Police & Fire Games 2025 visit https://bhm2025.com/
MAJOR RISE IN NATURAL DISASTERS –METEOROLOGICAL AGENCY STUDY
Natural disasters are on the rise, and there’s been a five-fold increase in environmental catastrophes over the last 50 years, according to figures released by the UN and World Meteorological Organisation.
Advanced real-time monitoring and control technologies may hold the solution to address these challenges, according to Etienne Clauw, Associate Product Line Manager of Remote Telemetry Units (RTUs)
For information on the role of RTUs in monitoring and controlling critical infrastructure, visit Ovarro’s website https://ovarro.com/en/global/home
at Ovarro. He said these systems are more essential than ever for protecting critical infrastructure and supporting disaster preparedness to ensure a swift response.
“RTUs are integral to smart infrastructure, providing capabilities like real-time monitoring, data acquisition and control. These units collect, process and transmit real-time data from diverse field devices and sensors to a central control centre, enabling seamless communication between field assets and supervisory systems. Leveraging this data enables more informed and timely decisions, and these decisions are crucial for effective disaster preparedness and response,” he noted.
To illustrate the effectiveness of Ovarro’s RTUs in mitigating the effects of natural disasters, Clauw considers a scenario involving a coastal city prone to hurricanes. “This city’s critical infrastructure includes a network of transformers, transmission lines and recloser systems, all monitored and managed using RTUs. As a major hurricane approaches, the city’s utility operators leverage the RTUs to ensure the resilience and stability of the power grid.
“As the hurricane hits, transmission line capacity monitoring becomes crucial. The RTUs continuously track the load and thermal conditions of the lines. This real-time load management ensures that power remains stable and reliable, even under the extreme conditions of the hurricane.”
