Michael Collins (Cork South West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I congratulate the Minister of State in her new role, and I thank the Regional Group for tabling this important motion.

Every time we have spoken about the carers of this country I have called for the carer's allowance means test to be abolished. It is time the Minister set this in motion. Carers are doing the work, so pay them. That is the simple answer.

Also, the reablement service, a pilot project launched in Network 13 in 2023, provides home support for people struggling with tasks due to minor accidents. The service lasts for up to five or six weeks and includes assistance with dressing, showering, meal preparation, mobility, social activities and medication management. The team comprises an occupational therapist, OT, a physiotherapist and several healthcare assistants. The service has been highly praised by GPs and public health nurses. Most patients have been successfully reabled. However, this service is set to be discontinued in two weeks' time. The discontinuation could lead to potential falls and injuries for those who rely on the service, possibly resulting in hospitalisation, long-term residential care or the need for family members to provide care. This could increase the financial burden on health services and disrupt families. The service's discontinuation is due to the lead OT going on maternity leave. Despite interest from other qualified OTs, the decision to end the service is imminent. The HSE plans to roll out the reablement service to other counties, but the discontinuation of the pilot scheme in Cork is seen as a negative sign. I plead that this service be continued.

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