Seanad debates

Wednesday, 21 November 2018

10:30 am

Photo of Keith SwanickKeith Swanick (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I wish to speak on the topic of loneliness. As Members are aware, I founded the loneliness task force in association with Seán Moynihan from ALONE. We sought submissions from all over the country and these prove that loneliness crosses all demographics. Loneliness is a problem for young and old, urban and rural, and rich and poor. We all know it is corrosive in terms of people's mental and psychological health. The task force published a report, a copy of which Senators will have received, entitled A Connected Island: An Ireland Free from Loneliness. This report highlights the problem that loneliness is for our health, our social well-being and our economy through lack of productivity, absenteeism from work, over-attendance at GP clinics and overuse of prescription medication. This is a real problem and we need to address it. The report identifies some fundamental, solution-driven and achievable targets. Unfortunately, these have not been implemented. I have forwarded the report to all Members of the Oireachtas. I contacted the Taoiseach, the Minister for Health, Deputy Harris, and the Minister of State, Deputy Jim Daly, but I have received no response. I hope the Leader will agree to arranging a debate on loneliness in the coming weeks or in the new year. This is a real issue and it is gaining traction among people. We need to treat it as a serious problem.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.