Cork has become the first city in Ireland to see the St John Ambulance eBike Cycle Response Unit
The ground breaking initiative will enhance emergency medical response capabilities in how first responders reach patients in challenging locations.
The initiative features two eBikes—electronically assisted pedal cycles—designed to navigate Cork’s terrain with ease, ensuring rapid medical response in areas inaccessible to traditional ambulances.
Equipped to carry up to 25kg of medical gear, including defibrillators, oxygen, and essential life-support tools, the eBikes empower responders to handle life-threatening emergencies more rapidly.
Alan Barry, cycle responder and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) with St John Ambulance Cork City, says:
“The eBikes are a game-changer for us, especially in a city like Cork with its hills and narrow streets.
They enable us to get to patients faster in busy urban settings and at large events where access by ambulance can be difficult. We’re looking forward to seeing the difference they’ll make at events like the Cork City Marathon, match days at Páirc Uí Chaoimh, concerts, and public gatherings such as the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Cork City Centre.”
Megan Butler, Divisional Manager for St John Ambulance Cork City, added:
“The introduction of eBikes represents a natural and exciting progression in how we adapt to the evolving needs of our communities and members. Equipping our cycle responders with the best tools possible ensures we can deliver the highest standard of care.
At St John Ambulance Cork City, our dedicated volunteers work tirelessly, often in demanding situations, to provide vital support and emergency assistance. Providing them with innovative equipment like these eBikes helps us enhance their ability to respond quickly and effectively, making a real difference in people’s lives when it matters most.”
St John Ambulance has been at the forefront of emergency medical services in Ireland since 1903 and has operated from a permanent base in Cork City since 1934. Its volunteers provide medical cover for events, assist the HSE, and deliver first aid training to the public. Globally, St John Ambulance operates in 44 countries, supported by 160,000 volunteers and a fleet of over 10,000 ambulances.
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