Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for that reply. We are saying the same. It is opportune because World Stroke Day was on 29 October. The reports, findings and the opinions of people who work with stroke victims all say the same thing: proper consultation, organisation and better community therapy services for stroke survivors will improve their quality of life on a major scale. We would see more cost savings than under the current system; therefore, there is an economic justification for the rapid development of community rehab and care services. We are also talking about international best practice. Above all, however, there is a greater justification on the personal side. It is about making a difference in the lives of those who suffer stroke and those who love them. My own recent experience involved someone who had a stroke. He was quickly admitted to hospital, where the care was excellent. He then went to a nursing home but spent far too long there. The care and therapy there was too intermittent and too short. If that person had been at home receiving community care with his family and friends around him, encouraging him, that informal therapy would have been much more valuable. If we are going to make a difference, we must deal with the matter urgently. The services are not seeking a blank cheque, and while it is not an astronomical amount of money, it can make a big difference.

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