Carol Nolan (Offaly, Independent) | Oireachtas source

It is scandalous that there are 570 people in Laois-Offaly awaiting home help. I am aware there is a serious problem with home help hours and home care packages. The programme for Government refers to caring for our elderly people, but it is far from the case. I have people in my office every day of the week despairing over the fact they do not have home help hours. I have pointed out previously in the Chamber that many elderly couples are trying to take care of each other. These are elderly couples with health conditions and they are unable to cope. It is scandalous. We need something done here. Urgent action must be taken because hospital beds are being occupied. It is unacceptable and we must take action to ensure that Laois-Offaly is given adequate provision for home help hours and home care packages.

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