enator Mike Kennely, recently addressing The Seanad, has highlighted the growing number of tragic incidences of heart related deaths among our young. He is calling on Ministers and The Government to immediately implement mandatory cardiac screenings and the following are extracts from the speech…
“Relevant Ministers and the entire Government, I would like to speak on an issue of life and death – the urgent need to introduce mandatory cardiac screening for all competitive sports players between the ages of 12 and 18. Too often, we only act after the tragedy strikes. But we now have a chance to act before any further tragedy does.”
“Heart conditions are among the leading causes of sudden death among young athletes. many of these conditions remain undiagnosed due to their silent nature – no symptoms, no warnings, yet the consequences can be devastating. Studies show that early detection through cardiac screening, particularly electrocardiogram (ECG) testing, can significantly reduce the risk of sudden cardiac events by identifying underlying conditions before they become fatal.”
“Across the world, we see compelling evidence for preventative action. Italy’s mandatory screening programme, introduced in the 1980s, has resulted in 89% reduction in sudden cardiac deaths among young athletes. It is a clear demonstration that proactive measures save lives. In contrast, Ireland lack a nationwide cardiac screening policy. While voluntary screenings are available, the reach remains limited, and many young athletes remain vulnerable simply because they never had the opportunity to be tested.”
“In Ireland, around 100 young people die every year from Sudden Adult Death Syndrome (SADS) and this seems to be rising. Many of them are involved in sports. These young lives are cut short by inherited or undiagnosed conditions – silent, invisible threats that often show no symptoms until it is too late. We cannot allow a screening programme to depend on tragedy for action. We need to prevent these incidents – not just respond to them.”
“Sports organisations and charities have stepped up where policy has lagged behind. The Dillon Quirke Foundation, established after Dillon’s sudden death during a hurling match in 2022, has already screened over 10,000 young people, identifying 243 who require further cardiac evaluation. These screenings have undoubtedly saved lives, but no family should have to rely on charity alone for protection.”
“If we require gum shields and helmets to safeguard our children from physical impact, why do we not check the organ most vulnerable and under pressure – their hearts? The cost of inaction is measured in lost lives, grief-stricken families, and communities devastated by preventable tragedies.”
“I am calling the Minister for Heath, the Minister for Sport and The Government as a whole to introduce legislation that would make cardiac screening, including ECGs, mandatory for all competitive sports participants between the ages of 12 and 18. This must be nationwide, State-supported programme, developed in partnership with schools, sports bodies and medical professionals.”
“Furthermore, we must ensure that this programme is accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic background. It should not be a privilege – it must be right. Screening should be integrated into routine health checks for young athletes, creating a culture of prevention rather than reaction.”
“We owe it to the families who have lost loved ones – and to those who could be spared the heartbreak – to act now, before another young life is lost.”
