Colette Kelleher (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Leas-Chathaoirleach and the Clerk of the Seanad for allowing us the opportunity to raise this important issue. I welcome the Minister of State, Deputy Jim Daly, to the House. Dementia is an issue that affects every community throughout Ireland. An estimated 55,000 people live with the condition with this figure expected to more than double in the next 20 years. People with dementia need a wide range of community services to support them from the moment of diagnosis and throughout their journey. We are all aware of the significant gaps in these vital services and supports in every county.