Michael Collins (Cork South West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

As we stand on the precipice of this Friday's vote, Ireland's fate hangs in the balance with a pivotal referendum that could redefine the very fabric of our society. It centres around replacing Article 41.2 of the Constitution with Article 42B. This proposed article recognises that care provided by family members to one another forms a bedrock upon which our common good rests. It acknowledges the invisible threads that tie us together, namely, love, compassion and duty. Therein lies the crux of our deliberation, however. We, the concerned citizens, stand united in urging a resounding "No". The reason is that the phrase "shall strive to support" leaves room for ambiguity. It lacks the robustness needed to hold the State accountable for the care of those who depend on us. It is a hollow promise, a mere whisper in the wind that fails to genuinely uplift carers or those in need.

The proposed amendment serves as a stark example of a Government that pays lip service to pressing issues. A "Yes" vote would unwittingly endorse this inadequacy, but we know better. Unpaid family carers know better. These unsung heroes navigate the brink of services promised by the Government, the HSE and the National Council for Special Education, NCSE. They witness the chasm between theory and practice. We need language that mandates unwavering support for carers, not vague assurances but a resolved commitment beyond the next election cycle. We must hold institutions accountable. Trusting the process is a luxury that carers cannot afford. Engaging with the HSE and other State bodies often feels like scaling mountains only to find barren peaks devoid of support. Let us not forget the horror stories about bureaucratic hurdles, endless paperwork and the exhaustion faced by families struggling to access care for their loved ones. The proposed wording places no obligations on the State. It shifts the focus of care to our homes, burdening families disproportionately. The HSE and other bodies will be allowed to wield it as a shield against providing essential support.

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