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By Sean Moriarty

Members Killarney Cardiac Response Unit (KCRU) will continue to assist in a volunteer capacity despite being temporarily stood down by the HSE.

The Killarney Advertiser understands that KCRU cannot now act as a first responder to cardiac cases in the Killarney region as they risk contacting COVID-19 from a potential patient.

Up until restrictions were put in place last month, the unit acted as first responders to cardiac patients.

They were under the control of the HSE’s regional ambulance base and their prime purpose was to provide assistance while the patient waited for an ambulance.

This intermediate service has now been withdrawn but KCRU members will continue to help local community groups and are now linked with the Kerry Community Response Advisory Group (KCRAG).

KCRU volunteers said there was no need for concern and that these cardiac incidents would be dealt with through normal 999 services.

Additionally, KCRU has placed two new defibrillators in key locations in town – outside the Ilona Louise Hair Salon and on the grounds of the Kingfisher Lodge Guesthouse on Lewis Road – to complement the 18 other units scattered all over Killarney and its hinterland.

“We are now linked in with Kerry Volunteer Centre and many of our team are available to assist as needed,” Carole Moran, PRO of the KCRU, said. “We must praise the wonderful efforts of so many groups who have been providing support so far and also to An Garda Síochána who have been supporting communities throughout this crisis.”

Kerry Community Response Advisory Group has also set up a freephone number - 1800 807 009 – for those who may require non-medical or emergency assistance in the coming weeks.

Members of the public can also text ‘SUPPORT’ followed by their name to 50555 or e-mail covidsupport@kerrycoco.ie available 8am to 8pm seven days a week.