Child heart screening considered

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Cardiology experts are to examine the issue of heart screening for young people in Northern Ireland, Health Minister Michael McGimpsey has said.

Earlier this month two boys - aged 10 and 13 - died during Gaelic football training sessions in County Tyrone.

"I am aware there have been calls for a screening programme" the minister said.

"We must first consider whether the available evidence indicates that screening is the right course of action."

Patrick Devlin, 13, from Ardboe, collapsed during a training session on 8 September.

A defibrillator was used at the scene to try to revive him but he was later declared dead at Craigavon Hospital.

Earlier in the month, Patrick Breen, from Dregish, was taking part in a training game in Drumquin when he fell to the ground.

Emergency aid was given to the 10-year-old, but he was declared dead at the Erne Hospital a short time later.

Two other boys died in similar circumstances in County Westmeath.

Mr McGimpsey said the chief medical officer would lead a workshop of experts in cardiology, clinical psychologists, genetics and relevant government departments and agencies to examine the issue.

"We want to get this right," the minister said.

"This is the proper tribute this assembly should pay to our children who have lost their lives so young to this terrible condition."