South Kerry self-funded emergency team looking for a home

By Alastair Tibbs, The Kerryman

Kenmare’s highly praised first responder team is looking for a base for its operations in the isolated south Kerry town.

Councillor Johnny Healy-Rae said the volunteer team had saved countless people and urged Kerry County Council to assist them in finding a suitable office.

The community first responder team in Kenmare has been in operation for a number of years, providing a volunteer service that supports the National Ambulance Service in the rural region.

At a recent Kenmare Municipal District meeting, Cllr Healy-Rae praised the self-funded team as a ‘massive asset’ to Kenmare and the wider area.

He said they were highly trained and that they were frequently used by the national service to provide a quick emergency response.

“Theres no counting the amount of people they have saved,” said Cllr Healy-Rae.

“They [ambulance service] have no problem using them when they’re needed and once they are called out there are a lot of reports after to complete.

“It doesn’t have to be five-star stuff…this is a worthy ask.”

Cllr Healy-Rae suggested that St Claire’s Convent could provide an office for the team once the building has been refurbished.

New plans for the building include a civic meeting space, office spaces and a family resources centre, with a car park of over 100 spaces designed for the surrounding land.

Kerry County Council said it would liaise with the emergency response team to understand their needs.

KCC said they would coordinate with them if they could help.