Emergency communication system to boost rural safety

The Government’s launch of a new emergency communications platform will help improve connectivity, particularly for rural communities, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Deputy John Clendennen said the new system utilises cutting edge technology to build greater resilience in our emergency communications, creating a system of ‘last resort’ which will allow first responders continue to be able to communicate in emergency situations, like extreme weather events such as Storm Éowyn last year, where power systems fail.

The new Mission Critical Communications system will ensure that Gardaí, fire services, ambulance teams and civil defence can communicate and coordinate more effectively, even in the most remote locations or during extreme weather events when power and mobile networks are down.

The new system has been hailed as "a gamechanger" for communities in Offaly by Deputy John Clendennen. "It means faster emergency response times, with first responders able to talk, text, share live video and send maps instantly, even when storms or poor mobile coverage would normally cut people off" he said, adding that responders will also have "priority access to the network" ensuring that communication lines remain open when they are needed most.

“This is especially important for rural Ireland, where connectivity challenges can put lives at risk. The peace of mind this brings to families, particularly those with elderly or vulnerable relatives, cannot be overstated" said the local TD>

The new system was announced in Westport this week by Minister of State for Public Procurement, Digitalisation and eGovernment, Emer Higgins.