Secondary schools are being invited to take part in a new campaign to increase the number of defibrillators available at community locations around the country.
A new initiative has been launched in Galway, where students are using the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) to purchase the special equipment, that can be used in medical emergencies.
Pupils at Coláiste Éinde plan to buy a defibrillator with the money they get for collecting empty bottles and cans.
It will be placed at an outdoor location, adjacent to the school's playing pitches, which are used by hundreds of people throughout the week.
The idea came about during a meeting of the Coláiste Éinde student council and has received the backing of Galway City Council, as well as the National Ambulance Service.
It is hoped the idea will be replicated elsewhere, with the local authority planning to install a number of dedicated recycling bins to facilitate similar collections.
Access to defibrillators in the case of sudden cardiac arrest can assist with the chances of recovery and proximity to the devices is key in this regard.
With over 700 students registered at the Salthill school, the money to purchase the defibrillator will be raised in a matter of weeks.
It is estimated that if every pupil was to recycle two bottles a week, funds would be collected within a month.
Ed Graham, who is one of those on the student council, said that as well as helping those who may experience health issues around the school, the project also drew attention to the need to reduce plastic waste.
While Tess McNamara said she was surprised at how easy it would be for students to raise the necessary funds.
"If everyone brings in a bottle or two a week, we would raise over €1,000 in no time. And it’s important to have the defibrillators available for people, in case they have an accident," she said.
That mix of environmental and social action is seen by Galway City Council as key to the way in which the idea will resonate with people.
The authority’s Environmental Officer, Fergal Cushen, said that the simplicity of the scheme and the tangible benefits it would bring, would ensure that more schools and other community groups would adopt it.
The Coláiste Éinde student council plans to purchase other items that will benefit the school community by continuing the collections after the defibrillator is bought.
