First responders group to be set up in Kinnegad

Kinnegad will have its own community first responders group later this year following a highly productive information evening this week.

The meeting in Scanlons on Wednesday night featured a presentation by Amanda Ross, community engagement officer with the HSE, as well as contributions from representatives from Mullingar First Repsonders and Rochfortbridge First Responders.

The meeting was organised by community activist Frances Monahan, who is running for Sinn Fein in this June's local elections.

Speaking to the Westmeath Examiner, Ms Monahan thanked Ms Ross and the representatives from Mullingar and Rochfortbridge first responders for their support and guidance. She also explained why she feels it's important that a group is established in Kinnegad.

“There was a great turnout for the information night on how to set up a community first responders group and what it entails.

“I feel that the community in Kinnegad needs our own local first responders group, After all time is of the essence in emergency situations and local people can get to a local emergency quickly.

“The night was very positive and nearly all the people who attended pledged their support. Kinnegad First Responders will be live in September.”