Tom Fleming (Kerry South, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Last week, we had a presentation in Leinster House by members of the Alzheimer's Society of Ireland. They were introduced to the Members of the Oireachtas by Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin, who has first-hand knowledge of this ailment due to a family connection. The speakers for this sector included a person who has been afflicted with Alzheimer's disease and is going through the ordeal while trying to live as fully as possible, and a carer who is looking after his mother on a full-time basis. A contribution was also made by a GP with expert knowledge of the medical condition.

The Alzheimer's group is promoting the national dementia strategy, which was launched by the Government in December. This is aimed at meeting the needs of the approximately 48,000 people who are currently living with dementia. A rapidly growing number are afflicted by this debilitating disease and this will continue into the future. The national strategy is a first step, but real progress will require strategic financial investment, naturally, and a new social and community approach to dementia. The priority actions in the strategy have the potential, if implemented, to significantly improve the rates of diagnosis of the early stages, to improve people's journey through life and also to improve the health and social care system for these people.

Will the Taoiseach prioritise the national dementia strategy, as diagnosis and referral to the appropriate services need to be vastly improved? Will he provide adequate home care packages for the many thousands of people who urgently require these to enable them to live in their communities? Will he support a campaign to remove the stigma associated with the whole issue of dementia?

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