New emergency unit already saving Cork lives

A newly established volunteer-led emergency medical response unit has already responded to 25 incidents in Cork city in its first month.

The new Community First Responder (CFR) was launched in Douglas on 19 December by emergency response charity, Critical.

The unit’s eight fully-trained volunteers are alerted by the National Ambulance Service to cardiac arrests, heart attacks, strokes, and choking incidents in Douglas and surrounding areas including Farmer’s Cross, Frankfield, Rochestown, Moneygurney, and Ballinlough.

The eight members come from a wide range of backgrounds including healthcare, the emergency services, business, and retirees.

Alan Barry, co-ordinator of the Douglas CFR group, said the team is fully equipped to care for people in their darkest moments.

He said: “Douglas is a large area with a population of 40,000 people. Our team is living here, they are active in their local communities, and are committed to responding to people when they need us most.”

Emergency response charity Critical has a network of more than 300 volunteer responders across Ireland who responded to over 2,000 calls during 2025.

Volunteers include doctors and consultants equipped with emergency response vehicles and high-tech equipment; community first responder (CFR) groups; as well off-duty paramedics and emergency medical technicians (EMTs).

The charity’s CEO, David Tighe, said: “When a medical emergency happens, minutes can feel like hours.

“CFR groups ensure that help comes from nearby, from a neighbour, colleague, or someone who knows the community and cares about it.

“These volunteers bring compassion, reassurance, and life-saving care to people when they are most vulnerable.

“The Critical CFR Douglas group is an important addition to our network of responders across the country and they are already making a real difference to their local communities,” added Mr Tighe.

The National Ambulance Service Community First Response network is now in its 21st year of operation. National Community Engagement Manager, Ger O’Dea, said the service is getting stronger every year.

He said: “We have seen the network grow from strength to strength over the years and have seen many lives saved as a result of the great work done by our dedicated volunteers.

“Working alongside charities such as Critical has helped us to enhance our capabilities in communities across Ireland, and we are delighted to further our collaboration with the charity to establish Douglas CFR, another valuable link in the chain of survival.”