At the launch of the new MAG Ireland membership card were (Back row L-R):
Nick Coward & Rodge Byrne (bikerstraining.com), Sarah O’Connell (RSA), Aly Dixon and Dave Bowcock (Principal Insurance), Declan McGuire, Victor Donnelly and Peter Bartlett (MAG Ireland).
Front Row: Mark Doyle and Fergus Lennon (Blood Bike Leinster)
Image credit: Pat Whelan
MAG Ireland (The Irish Motorcyclists’ Association), today announced the official launch of their new plastic credit card style membership card which includes all pertinent information plus a unique and simple addition – An ICE (In Case of Emergency) number.
The ICE Number programme enables first responders such as paramedics, fire fighters and Gardaí, as well as hospital staff, to contact next of kin and obtain important medical information in the event of a serious road accident. This information can be crucial in an emergency situation and all MAG Ireland members are asked to support this unique initiative by carrying the new membership card in clear ID pockets located on many hi-viz jackets or in the riders wallet.
This is a giant leap forward for MAG Ireland which included a significant investment in card printing technology.
Speaking at the launch, MAG Ireland P.R.O. Victor Donnelly said:
“As a not for profit motorcyclists’ association MAG Ireland depends greatly on the goodwill of sponsors to alleviate the costs associated with launching such initiatives. In this instance we are delighted to be supported by Principal Insurance who kindly donated the equipment that has enabled us to be at this point today”.
Aly Dixon, who leads Principal Insurance in Dublin said:
“When Principal Insurance were approached by MAG Ireland we knew we had to support this project and with it the wellbeing of Irish motorcyclists. As the newest player in Ireland’s motorcycle insurance market we are delighted to support this initiative and will monitor it’s success here with a view to migrating the idea to the UK”.
The new MAG Ireland membership card is being issued at no cost to all MAG Ireland members and will replace the paper card version which has been used for many years. Along with the ICE number that will be displayed on the card, MAG Ireland will roll out a number of other promotional benefits that will allow members to obtain discounts at a number of motorcycle dealerships across the country by simply presenting their membership card in store.
Peter Bartlett, MAG Ireland Chairman and Membership Officer said:
“The inclusion of an ICE Number on the MAG Ireland membership card is not mandatory, however the ICE Number details will remain blank unless otherwise advised”
Bartlett went on to explain:
“An ICE number cannot be your own personal phone number, instead it must be that of a close relative or friend who is familiar with your current medical condition”.
Paramedic Nick Coward and Emergency Care Practitioner Rodge Byrne of of First Bike on Scene – Emergency Response Skills programme B.I.K.E.R.S. training highlight the following:
“In case of emergency (ICE) is a system that allows first responders, such as paramedics, firefighters or police officers to contact the holders nominated person to obtain important medical or support information.
For example, if a rider is found unconscious at the scene of an accident, paramedics are trained to look for items such as bracelets, necklaces, or cards carrying ICE, blood group or medical information. This can be a lifesaver if an individual has a pre-existing medical condition or allergy which paramedics or hospital A&E teams can be made aware of early on.”
Any member who wants to have the ICE number printed on their new membership card should forward it together with membership number to membership@magireland.org if you haven’t already done so.
L-R: Victor Donnelly, (MAG), Aly Dixon (Principal Insurance), Sarah O’Connell (RSA), Dave Bowcock (Principal Insurance), Peter Bartlett, (MAG) and Declan McGuire (MAG).
Image Credit: Pat Whelan
MAG Ireland wish to extend our sincere thanks to Principal Insurance, B.I.K.E.R.S. Training, The Road Safety Authority and Blood Bike Leinster for their support and also to City North hotel for use of their facilities.