Sinn Féin TD for Cork North Central, and spokesperson on Addiction, Wellbeing and Recovery, has today welcomed the launch of a programme that will see Cork City Fire Brigade carry the lifesaving overdose treatment drug Naloxone.

Teachta Gould said:

“Expansion of the Naloxone scheme is something Sinn Féin advocated strongly for in the last Dáil term. Today’s launch is a welcome step forward but it should be a first step in broadening the scheme to ensure that everybody who needs it can access Naloxone.

“We know that the drug has saved lives in Cork and right across the state. This was particularly true in recent months when there were serious issues with drugs on the street. However, it is not just a vital treatment for those in addiction. I have spoken to medical professionals about the potential risks, especially to older people, who are prescribed opiods and the need to ensure that Naloxone is available to them also.

“I want to commend Cork City Fire Brigade for stepping up and undergoing the training required. I hope we see this rolled out now across the fire service to support the work of the ambulance service and those on the ground in outreach. However, the licensing system as it currently stands can act as a barrier for loved ones and those in addiction who want to carry this drug. No life should be lost because they cannot access treatment that takes just a short training course to deliver.”