Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 April 2026
781. Deputy Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh asked the Minister for Social Protection the locations of INTREO offices that currently do not have a defibrillator available for use within the offices; and the estimated costs required to ensure all remaining INTREO offices have defibrillators ready for use. [30438/26]
View answerMy department places a strong emphasis on health and safety, embedding it into every aspect of its operations. It works to maintain safe, accessible, and well-managed environments for both staff and the public, supported by clear policies, regular risk assessments, and ongoing training. It is committed to protecting wellbeing and ensuring that services are delivered in a secure and responsible way. The availability of defibrillators and trained staff in Intreo offices is part of that commitment.
We have identified 11 Intreo offices across 8 counties where a new unit is required. The cost of purchasing new AEDs for Intreo offices that are currently without one, is estimated to be less than €30,000.
A new supplier for the provision and maintenance of the Department’s AEDs has recently been procured. The supplier will visit all of the department's offices to upgrade the existing unit/s or install new units, as required. Self-monitoring AEDs alert both the supplier and the department if they go into an ‘error’ state. Any required action can then be carried out immediately. The roll out commenced mid-April 2026 and will be carried out over the next 3 months.
Following the roll-out, we expect to have installed a self-monitoring AED in every Intreo office, supported by a robust maintenance system that guarantees the highest standards of safety and performance.
