Can we make CPR training mandatory in secondary schools? CPR doubles and sometimes trebles the chances of survival in the case of cardiac arrest. Every ten minutes that go by without CPR reduces the chance of survival by 10%. Amazingly in Ireland, which has a population of more than 5 million, only about 80,000 individuals are trained in or know CPR. It is proven that bystander CPR saves lives. Some 70% of cardiac arrests happen in the home, so it is vital that we train teenagers in our schools with the skills necessary to save lives. We can train up the new lifesavers. When I was in transition year, which is more than 20 years ago now, CPR was optional. That is still the case as far as I know. We need to make it mandatory. We need to introduce refresher courses in order that more people will be confident enough to perform CPR and, importantly, save lives.

It is a very good idea that every student in transition year, fifth or sixth year would be trained not just in first aid but also basic life support. That can be done in one day and would certainly save lives and reduce the impact of injuries. I know what will be said to me if I discuss the matter with the Department of Education and the Minister, Deputy Foley.

I will be informed that there is a long list of many things that people want to add to the curriculum and have children do at school. The contents of that list range from coding to Internet safety training to driving tests - you name it. They always ask me what I am going to do and whether I am going to cut something or extend school hours? That is the direction in which the conversation goes. It is something that we might talk about again.