15 Jun 2021, 15:55
The Joint Committee on Health will discuss Ireland’s cardiovascular health policy with the Irish Heart Foundation and Croí at a meeting in Leinster House, Committee Room 2, tomorrow, Wednesday 16 June at 9.30am.
Croí Chief Executive Neil Johnson and Irish Heart Foundation Chief Executive Tim Collins will appear virtually before the Committee.
Committee Cathaoirleach Seán Crowe TD said: “Almost every hour, of every day a life was lost to heart disease or stroke in Ireland last year. In addition, there are thousands of people living with cardiovascular disease who need medical treatment, rehabilitation and social care services on a daily basis.
“Footballer Christian Eriksen’s sudden on-pitch collapse at a European Cup match at the weekend has brought heart-health to the fore in our minds. It also highlighted the importance of access to defibrillators and knowledge of CPR as a response to cardiac arrest.
“The Committee welcomes this timely opportunity to meet with Croí and the Irish Heart Foundation to discuss the programmes, life-saving treatment and recovery services needed within our health services and communities to promote heart health and prevent premature deaths from heart disease deaths and stroke.”
A total of 8,744 people died from heart disease and stroke in Ireland in 2020, according to the Central Statistics Office. The Irish Heart Foundation (IHF) was founded in 1966 to help reduce premature death and disability from cardiovascular disease and stroke. The IHF is fighting to deliver services that will contribute to a 25% reduction in premature deaths from cardiovascular disease by 2025.
Croí has a particular focus on the West of Ireland. The organisation’s mission is to prevent disease, save lives and promote recovery & wellbeing.
Watch the Committee live.
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Deputies