Fiona O'Loughlin (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

On Tuesday, the Alzheimer Society of Ireland released a report called Life After Lockdown. Yesterday, I had an opportunity to read its findings and it was a very dark and disturbing read. Pre-Covid life was very difficult for those who suffered from dementia and their carers, so we can only begin to imagine what their lives are like now. We are now informed by extensive research that shows as many as 77% of carers have said that their workload has increased dramatically and 61% of them have said that they fear for their own physical and mental health. They have seen the rapid decline of those they love and care for who suffer from dementia. While I welcome this morning's news that a roadmap has been issued by the Minister of State, Deputy Rabbitte, for the opening of centres for those with disability, it is important to have a roadmap providing community supports for those who suffer with dementia. I ask the Leader to ask the Minister of State to come here to address us on this matter. Other supports are needed. Dementia data should be included in the Covid information that is given so that people have a clear picture. The bigger picture is considering how we support family carers and enhance in-home supports. I thank the Cathaoirleach for the opportunity to raise these matters.