A medical expert has hit out at MPs for apparent disinterest in increasing the number of lifesaving defibrillators on the Island.

Steve Jelfs, international clinical director of the Cardiac Science Corporation, ran a seminar last month in partnership with the Bermuda Red Cross, focused on installing new Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs). The devices are used to help those who have suffered a sudden cardiac arrest.

In a letter to The Royal Gazette, Mr. Jelfs said: "The people that attended from a wide selection of agencies and organisations across the Island were very enthusiastic and supportive, however, it was very disappointing to see that both the Government and the Opposition were conspicuous by their absence, despite being personally invited, with the only representative attending being the Chief Medical Officer.

"The fact is that 50 Bermudians every year die from sudden cardiac arrest and it is in all of our interests to do everything we can to save as many of these lives as possible.

"While one cannot expect the Government to do everything given the pressure on health and social care budgets, one would at least expect there to be some interest from the politicians after their efforts in the past couple of years to pass laws to allow the placement of AEDs in public places.

"Ladies and gentlemen, you need to follow through the laws you pass with appropriate action."

He added: "The Department of Health should be applauded for removing the import duty from AEDs to make it easier for customers to buy them, however, what your readers may not realise is that the batteries and defibrillation pads, which are vital components of an AED, are still subject to this very high duty.

"Giving the same exemption to these important components will help increase both the will to buy and placement of AEDs."

Mr. Jelfs said he was nonetheless pleased that both the Bermuda Red Cross and other individuals have taken the initiative to place AEDs in various locations, both public and private, across the Island. There are now over 100 in place.

He urged members of the public to lobby their MPs to ensure that Bermuda becomes first national 'Heartsafe' community in the world.