Robbie Gallagher (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I raise the issue of Parkinson's disease. A recently published report indicates that unfortunately, the incidence of the disease in this country is increasing. It also highlights that Ireland lags behind international standards on the treatments and back-up supports available to people who suffer from this horrible disease. I understand families of loved ones affected by the condition will protest outside the gates of the House this afternoon and I have no doubt Members of both Houses will take the opportunity to attend. I understand only a small number of specialist nurses are available to families of people with Parkinson's disease, with none available in counties Monaghan, Cavan and Roscommon. I ask the Leader to bring this matter to the attention of the Minister for Health to ensure it is addressed as a matter of urgency.

Páraic Duffy will complete his term as ard-stiúrthóir of the GAA in the next week or thereabouts. Mr. Duffy has been in the role for the past ten years and has performed in a competent and efficient manner. The people of County Monaghan are well aware of his ability from his former role as principal of St. Macartan's College for many years. I am glad people nationally are now aware of the ability he brought to the position of ard-stiúrthóir. Mr. Duffy steered the GAA through a difficult decade caused by the recession and emigration and transformed the all-Ireland club football championship to give players more time to play club football, which is vital. I acknowledge his contribution to the GAA and wish him and his family well in the next phase of his life. I understood he has taken up a role as selector for his beloved Scotstown GAA club and I wish him well in that regard.