Martin Browne (Tipperary, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

The programme for Government contains a commitment to significantly improve people's lives with reference to the neuro-rehabilitation strategy. I have been contacted by 15-year-old Eabha Mansfield, and her sister, Ciara, who in the space of just a few months this year lost their mother to cancer, while at the same time their father suffered a heart attack. Their father is in University Hospital Waterford as he requires 24-7 care and assistance with feeding and dressing and he has issues with his memory. Scans have shown there is room for improvement. However, he remains in hospital, which is not suitable for his needs, and there is mention of him being transferred to a nursing home. His family are extremely concerned that if he goes into a home, he may never come out again. His daughters have been through a dreadful few months and their family lives have been changed forever. They desperately want to secure an urgent assessment to see if the National Rehabilitation Centre in Dún Laoghaire could improve his mind, memory and awareness. They are afraid daily that he may not remember them. Given the commitment in the programme for Government, can they be assured of a speedy assessment? Can the Taoiseach or the Minister for Health, Deputy Donnelly, help this family? Eabha and Ciara deserve a break. I appeal to the Taoiseach to help them.

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