The Tony Parker Foundation is to provide its 100th defibrillator to a location in the centre of Athlone, councillors were informed at November’s meeting of the Athlone Municipal District.
The foundation was founded by students of Moate Community School in the wake of the tragic death of 16-year-old Tony Parker, who collapsed and died before a PE class in 2007. Run by his mother Geraldine, the foundation provides defibrillators and training in their use free of charge to locations in the event of an emergency, something that has saved numerous lives throughout the foundation’s existence.
Councillors were unanimous in their praise for the work the Tony Parker Foundation carries out. Fianna Fáil councillor, Frankie Keena, called on the chamber to both recognise the great work done by the foundation and to suggest a location in the town centre to install the 100th defibrillator.
Mayor of Athlone John Dolan commended all involved in the foundation. He said the great work it undertakes is a prime example of a terrible tragedy leading to the founding of a great organisation.
Sinn Féin councillor, Paul Hogan, told councillors that he had witnessed a defibrillator save the life of a man at Athlone Regional Sports Centre, and praised the work of all involved in the foundation.
Fianna Fáil’s Aengus O’Rourke also praised the work of the foundation. He suggested that the new defibrillator be located in the plaza area planned in line with the Church Street project.
Director of services Barry Kehoe said the council will meet with members of the foundation in order to share opinions and identify the most appropriate location for the defibrillator.
