Mae Sexton (Longford-Roscommon, Progressive Democrats)

I am pleased to have the opportunity to address the Dáil on long-term care policy and the broader issues of ageing Ireland. Just over two weeks ago, my party colleagues and I organised a very successful conference on ageing for interested organisations and guests. The majority of groups representing senior citizens within the State were in attendance. To my knowledge, this was the first time an Irish political party facilitated a discussion of this type. Ageing Ireland did not have the political profile it deserved until we put it on the agenda. We are using research resources provided by State funding to accomplish this. We must be honest and acknowledge that the House would not be debating these issues tonight were it not for our initiative.

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