Scott Reid Presents New Defibrillator Under Canadian Heartland Program

Smiths Falls – Local Member of Parliament Scott Reid presented a new Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) to Mayor Dennis Staples and the Town of Smiths Falls last week, in the latest presentation of the Canadian Heartland program.

The defibrillator, which will be located at the new Seniors Centre in Smiths Falls, is funded through Reid’s Canadian Heartland Rural Healthcare Initiative. On June 26th, Reid will be hosting his Second Annual Canadian Heartland Golf Tournament, which raises funds for the project that distributes defibrillators and CPR training throughout rural Ontario.

“Ready access to defibrillators and practical knowledge of CPR are low-cost ways to dramatically improve the survival rate of heart attack victims. However, rural areas have been traditionally overlooked by government when it comes to these vital measures,” Reid stated. “The Canadian Heartland program is an effort to make communities in rural Ontario healthier places in which to live, and more attractive homes for businesses.”

The idea for Canadian Heartland first developed in 2001, when Reid (then the MP for Lanark-Carleton) held a “constituency referendum” to determine whether he should opt out of a proposed $21,000 pay raise, or donate the raise to charity. Reid contributed the proceeds of the raise (over $100,000 so far) to a number of charitable causes, including the purchase of defibrillators for local fire departments, arenas, and other locations.

“Canadian Heartland expands this cause beyond the boundaries of a single riding. I invite all local businesses or interested citizens to join us on June 26th for an enjoyable day on the green – with all proceeds going towards this important effort.”

For more information or to speak with Mr. Reid
Please call (613) 257-8130 or (613) 947-2277.

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