The family of Philomena Donnelly, a woman who tragically died following a cardiac arrest, is raising concerns about parking issues that may have delayed emergency services in their neighborhood. This incident has sparked a conversation about the accessibility of emergency responders in urban areas like west Belfast, where congestion can have dire consequences.
Philomena Donnelly suffered a cardiac arrest at her home in August and passed away five days later. An ambulance arrived at their residence within 11 minutes, meeting the response time target for such emergencies. However, her husband, Damien Donnelly, reported that the ambulance’s access was obstructed by parked cars.
According to Mr. Donnelly, paramedics indicated that streets in Turf Lodge frequently pose challenges for emergency services due to blocked roads.
The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) expressed condolences to the Donnelly family but refrained from commenting on specific circumstances related to the case. They acknowledged various factors that can impact response times, including traffic congestion and road closures.
In light of this tragedy, the Donnelly family is advocating for increased awareness regarding parking regulations in their area. Their daughter Aimee emphasized the critical nature of timely medical intervention, questioning whether even a slight reduction in response time could have changed the outcome.
“Every second counts in emergencies,” Aimee remarked.
Local representatives like Social Democratic and Labour Party councillor Paul Doherty have echoed these sentiments, highlighting longstanding issues related to parking and congestion in Turf Lodge. He stressed that outdated infrastructure must be addressed so emergency services can operate effectively.
In response to these concerns, the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) plans to assess the area and explore potential solutions. The DfI has also urged local drivers to be mindful when parking.
Moreover, Belfast City Council recently initiated a pilot scheme aimed at combating improper parking practices across south and east Belfast, which may include fines for offenders.
The challenges faced by the Donnelly family illuminate a significant issue affecting many urban communities: ensuring that emergency vehicles can navigate congested streets. As discussions continue around this topic, it is clear that improvements are necessary not only for public safety but also for maintaining dignity during distressing times.
The tragic events surrounding Philomena Donnelly serve as a reminder of the critical importance of community cooperation and responsible parking practices. As local authorities consider potential changes, residents are encouraged to engage in constructive dialogue that prioritizes public safety and accessibility.
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