Michael Cahill (Kerry, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I, too, would like to be associated with the good wishes to the Minister. I wish her the very best going forward. I have no doubt her heart is in the right place.

In County Kerry, we are fortunate to have so many opportunities to stay active and look after ourselves. Our beautiful surroundings, from the sea to the mountains, naturally encourage us to get outside, walk, swim and explore. More than just our environment, however, we are also seeing a real shift in how people here approach health and well-being.

Over the past few years, activities like sauna use, sea swimming and fitness have really taken off in our county. Whether it is a swim in the Atlantic or a relaxing sauna session after a brisk walk, people are realising the physical and mental benefits of these simple practices. Sea swimming, in particular, has become something of a local tradition, with many people now swimming all year round, enjoying not just the physical benefits but the sense of community it brings. It is not just about individual activities, however. Our county has also seen an increase in community-based initiatives that support health and well-being for people of all ages. The active ageing initiative, led by Kerry County Council, is one example. This programme encourages older people to stay active and engaged whether through walking groups, fitness classes, or social activities. It is about making sure that people can remain fit and active throughout their lives and that no-one feels isolated or left behind.

When we talk about the future of healthcare, it is important to recognise that it is not just about the medical system we have in place. It is about creating communities where people are encouraged to take care of their physical and mental health. We can look to countries like Finland and Japan to see how others have incorporated wellness practices into daily life. In Finland, the sauna has long been part of the culture, offering not only physical benefits but a space for social connection and relaxation. Similarly, Japan’s approach to healthy ageing is based on staying active, finding purpose and engaging with life at every stage. We can learn a lot from these places, where health is seen not just in terms of treating illness, but in prevention, self-care and community support, and it is clear that in Kerry, we are on the right track. Therefore, what do we need to do moving forward? First, we need to continue supporting the activities and initiatives that encourage people to stay active. We need to make sure that there are more opportunities for people to engage in physical activity no matter their age or ability. Programmes like the active ageing initiative should be expanded, and we should continue to provide support for local sports clubs, fitness classes and wellness initiatives that promote health for everyone.

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