First of its kind unit developed by Mayo-based company

COMMUNITY NOTES: CLAREMORRIS - WESTERN PEOPLE (MAY 6 EDITION)

A new emergency response unit - the first of its kind in Ireland - has been installed at the Applegreen service station on the M4 motorway in Enfield, Co Meath.

Designed specifically for motorway use, the cabinet is fully solar-powered and entirely emission-free. It houses essential emergency equipment including fire extinguishers, trauma kits, windscreen breakers, defibrillators, and cardiac medication, offering 24/7 access to potentially life-saving supplies.

This innovative unit was developed by Eco Powered Cabinets, based in Hollymount, and is intended to serve both road users and the local community. With an annual average daily traffic of over 28,000 vehicles - equating to more than 31.6 million journeys per year - the need for accessible, roadside emergency equipment is clear.

The initiative has been supported by Transport Infrastructure Ireland and was welcomed at its launch by Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports Seán Canney. Speaking at the event, Minister Canney praised the installation as an important development in public safety, particularly in areas where access to emergency services can be delayed due to location.

“This is about preparedness and accessibility,” said Darren Forde, CEO of Eco Powered Cabinets. “By placing essential equipment directly on the motorway network, we’re reducing response time and giving people immediate tools to help in serious situations. It’s about saving lives.”

The cabinet is designed to be easy to access and visible to the public, with the aim of improving emergency outcomes in both road traffic incidents and unexpected medical situations. The concept may serve as a model for future installations on other major routes.

“This unit represents what can be achieved when public bodies and private enterprise work together,” Mr Forde added. “It’s a step forward in how we think about safety on our roads.”