Seán Power (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)

I apologise, but he has knocked me out of my stride before I even start. I thank Deputy Neville for raising this matter as it provides an opportunity to discuss ageism and its adverse impact on our older population.

The report attracted much publicity in the media and this must be welcomed. It has put the issue on the agenda. While there is much discrimination against older people a certain amount is unintentional. Nonetheless we must change the situation and prevailing attitudes that cannot be tolerated in a modern Ireland.

The Department of Health and Children welcomes the publication of the report, Perceptions of Ageism in Health and Social Services in Ireland, by the National Council on Ageing and Older People. It highlights the findings of research carried out in the ten former health boards during 2004 involving some 450 older people and 150 health and social services staff. The study sought to investigate whether older Irish people experience ageism within health and social services and, if so, to ascertain the impact of this experience. Ageism refers to deeply rooted negative beliefs about older people and the ageing process which may lead to age discrimination.

The Department is committed to promoting healthy ageing and an age-friendly society. It is also committed to ensuring that older people who have contributed to the development of our society are treated with dignity and respect when receiving health care services.

The Deputy mentioned consulting with older people. Older people are sometimes ignored and their views are not always sought. However, the situation is changing and must continue to change. We cannot allow for decisions to be taken on behalf of older people without consulting them. They are in the best position to know what they want and it is vital that they are not taken for granted. They have the same mind as the rest of us and the fact that they have a little more experience in life is no reason to ignore their views. Many older people, when they finish their normal working lives, become involved in voluntary organisations and make a huge contribution. Therefore it is important to put in place the necessary structures to allow them to make that contribution to society. The Government is fully committed to developing services for older people, including those who are sick. Home care packages will help them to live at home with dignity for as long as possible.

The Health Service Executive has statutory responsibility for the provision of health care services throughout the country and must ensure that all the services it provides are age friendly. The report will be very helpful to the HSE in this regard and I thank the National Council for Ageing and Older People for raising awareness of the issue of ageism in the health service.

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