Labour Introduces School Medical Emergencies Bill ahead of International Epilepsy Day
Labour Introduces School Medical Emergencies Bill ahead of International Epilepsy Day - The Labour Party
Labour’s education spokesperson Eoghan Kenny TD will introduce legislation into the Dáil this week to strengthen school responses to medical emergencies
Marking International Epilepsy Day (tomorrow, 9th February 2026), Kenny, who lives with epilepsy, said this bill is about preparing and protecting school communities and the overall health and wellbeing of students.
A former teacher and the youngest TD in the current Dáil, Deputy Kenny described the Bill as both professionally and personally significant:
“Having worked in our classrooms and having experienced epilepsy in my own life, I understand how important it is that schools are prepared for medical emergencies. Awareness is important, but awareness must lead to action. Every student and every staff member deserves to feel safe and supported in their school community.
Labour’s Education (Medical Emergencies in Schools) Bill seeks to improve access to appropriate training and resources for school staff so they can confidently respond in emergency situations, including the safe administration of prescribed medication where necessary.
Deputy Kenny emphasised that the legislation is intended to support educators in the classroom
“I am absolutely cognisant of the strain and workload currently facing school staff, and I would be the first to call for greater supports to help manage that pressure. This Bill is about empowerment, giving staff the skills and confidence that benefit their school communities and their own professional development.”
In preparing the legislation, Deputy Kenny consulted closely with Epilepsy Ireland and teaching unions, ensuring that both medical expertise and the practical realities of school life informed the proposal.
“Medical emergencies in schools are not hypothetical, they are a reality. During my own teaching career, I encountered situations where students required urgent medical assistance. It is inevitable that most teachers will face such a moment at some stage in their profession. We must ensure they are properly trained and supported when they do.”
The Bill aims to create a clearer framework for first-aid and medical-emergency training in schools, promote awareness, and enable quicker access to life-saving interventions where appropriate.
Deputy Kenny also acknowledged that legislation is only the first step in a broader process of implementation. He stressed that clear guidance, appropriate supports, and legal protections for school staff will be essential as the Bill progresses.
“There are many steps between introducing legislation and seeing it working effectively in our schools. We must ensure that staff are supported every step of the way. That includes guaranteeing that school personnel are protected from liability where they act in good faith and in accordance with training if an adverse medical outcome occurs. Confidence and clarity are crucial if we want this to succeed.
“As a legislator, it is our duty to ensure protections are in place that safeguard our young people and those who care for them every day. This legislation is about preparedness, prevention, and peace of mind, for students, parents, and staff alike. With the right supports, training, and legal clarity, we can build a safer school environment for everyone.”