Mr. John-Mark McCafferty:

Chairman and members in our presentation this morning we will outline our work with, and observations or concerns with regard to, the two groups in rural areas outlined by the clerk: older people and people experiencing disadvantage. We acknowledge that there is some overlap between these two groups, but note that many older people do not necessarily experience disadvantage, and that many people experiencing disadvantage are not older people. For both older people and lower income households generally in rural areas, transport to health or hospital appointments is important and therefore the cost and availability of rural transport services are key in our experience, as is the need for more energy efficient housing. Higher living costs associated with rural life, as evidenced by the Vincentian Partnership for Social Justice, such as car transport is a big cost concern for many households in rural areas is also a shared concern. Mr. Justin Moran also mentioned other items, which include the cost of food and clothing relative to the cost of these in urban areas, energy, household goods and social inclusion aspects. A meticulous study has been done by our Vincentian colleagues in the Vincentian Partnership for Social Justice, which we draw from on a regular basis.

Some of the other themes emerging in our work with older people in rural areas are as follows: ‘Seniors Alert’ pendant alarm systems, formerly ‘community supports for older people’ works well. We administer many of those schemes in local communities. Being able to grow older at home through the receipt of adequate services and supports, for example, meals on wheels, home help and the provision of more independent advocates for older people is welcome. We are very aware of the experience of lone parents, especially in cases where they have additional caring responsibilities, and the higher incidence of poverty among lone parents and children. There is also the impact of increased rents on rural housing markets adjacent to large towns and cities. Our members are concerned about access to education, training and employment, including adequate third level grant rates. Our members are concerned that more students appear to be falling into the lower adjacent grant rate as the distance criteria change.

Some of the policy solutions to the above issues relate to investment in quality, comprehensive public services which are free or affordable at the point of delivery. These require significant and sustained Exchequer resources, which require robust and dependable revenue streams. In our 2017 pre-budget submission, we have called for enhanced delivery of social housing, the provision of early childhood care and education and sustained and increased energy retrofitting of homes. Adequate incomes, both in work and out of work, are also vital for low income groups. Lastly, better physical planning and more integrated communities and services are required to achieve sustainable and resilient rural communities.

I thank the Chairman and members for inviting the Society of St. Vincent de Paul to offer its on-the-ground experience.