William Aird (Laois, Fine Gael)

I welcome the opportunity to speak on the important topic of men's health, an issue that touches every parish, home and family in Ireland. Today's debate is a milestone for the House. It is the first time that men's health is the sole focus of statements in Dáil Éireann. Often, men's health is discussed when it is too late, such as when a neighbour is ill, a farmer collapses or a family grieves a father, brother or son who did not put his hand out for help. Men's health matters not just to men but to their families, communities and society.

I am happy to acknowledge that Ireland was the first country to adopt a national men's health policy in 2009. Since then, progress has been made but we must build on this work. The HSE action plan Healthy Ireland men 2024-2028 is an important step. The report, The Real Face of Men's Health, highlights the challenges. Premature death among men is 40% higher than women. Men in deprived areas live five years less than those living in other areas. Some four out of five deaths by suicide or road traffic accidents are men.

In rural Ireland, we face specific challenges, including long distances to healthcare, a shortage of GPs and the reality that many men on farms or in trades put their health last. They will bring a tractor for a service before they book a checkup for themselves. That is why organisations like the Irish Men's Shed Association, Macra na Feirme, the Irish Farmers' Association and other community groups must be applauded for the work they are doing.

They are bringing health checks and awareness campaigns straight to the men's communities. It is a simple but very powerful idea. These outreach programmes need more support and funding.

Community initiatives are most important, but a strong health service is critical. In Laois County Council's area and across the midlands, nursing home capacity is under pressure. Families are struggling to find local care. I want at this stage to acknowledge the exceptional work of staff in St. Vincent's hospital in Mountmellick, St. Brigid's Hospital in Shaen and Abbeyleix district hospital, which the Leas-Cheann Comhairle knows about well, but we need more capacity in County Laois. Today, I urge the Minister of State and the HSE to prioritise my request. Mental health is a critical aspect of men's health. Stigma still remains around asking for help for mental health issues. Mental health support must include involvement in local counselling, outreach and community mental health teams and support for programmes like On Feirm Ground and Ahead of the Game. We need to bring services closer to men, tackle the stigma, expand the capacity and support community groups on the ground.

See this speech in context