MEP calls for EU database to improve defibrillator access in Mayo

MEP Nina Carberry has called for the creation of an EU-wide database for defibrillators, warning that gaps in current systems could cost lives in emergency situations.

The Fine Gael politician raised the issue this week at the European Parliament in Brussels, urging the European Commission to introduce a coordinated approach to registering and mapping defibrillators across member states.

Her call comes amid concerns that many devices remain unregistered and difficult to locate in emergencies, including in Mayo.

According to Community First Responders Ireland (CFR), there are currently eight active hubs within Mayo’s emergency defibrillator network, each responsible for managing a number of publicly accessible devices.

However, MEP Carberry warned that the wider national picture is concerning, with only around half of Ireland’s estimated 9,000 defibrillators listed on public databases.

“Too many defibrillators are effectively hidden in plain sight,” she said. “In an emergency, this lack of visibility can cost time that is critical for survival. Around 90% of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests are fatal without quick intervention.”

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She added that the issue is not unique to Ireland, pointing to research showing that just eight out of 19 European countries surveyed have a nationwide defibrillator mapping system in place.

This, she said, can create serious challenges for people travelling abroad who may need to locate a defibrillator quickly in a life-threatening situation.

MEP Carberry is now calling for the development of a comprehensive EU-wide database, supported by real-time digital tools such as mobile apps and mapping systems, to ensure devices can be easily located when needed.

“The starting point must be a full, accurate EU-wide database,” she said. “After that, the focus must be on making that information easily available in real time.”

In the meantime, she urged communities across Mayo and beyond to ensure any locally held defibrillators — including those in sports clubs, schools and public spaces — are properly registered with the HSE and relevant responder networks.

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MEP Carberry said the issue should form part of the EU’s broader cardiovascular health strategy, supported by funding and cross-border cooperation.

“We already have EU legislation to enable health data-sharing across borders. We should show the same ambition when it comes to defibrillators,” she said.

The MEP said improving access to defibrillators could play a crucial role in saving lives, both locally and across Europe.