Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I know time is getting short around here but that was very quick and efficient. I stood up only a minute ago but the Deputy has said the HSE and committee are having the meeting tomorrow. That worked out well. This is an important issue. I am pleased to hear from the Deputy that the meeting between the HSE and Templemore Community Services Centre will take place tomorrow.

The Government fully recognises and agrees with the Deputy and the centre that there is a need for additional space. We have to provide the opportunity and space for proper engagement between the HSE and the community services, but I am aware that the Government, including the Minister for Health, Deputy Donnelly, and the Minister of State, Deputy Butler, are committed to doing what they can to support the organisation. I hope we have shown good faith in this regard over recent years through what we have invested in older people’s services. In fact, the budget for 2025 will bring investment in older people’s services next year close to €3 billion, representing an increase of €349 million on the figure for this year. We have increased the budget for older people’s services by approximately 50% in the lifetime of the Government, and I hope that shows the value we attach to caring for older people in our community. We will continue to keep a close eye on this.

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