Victor Boyhan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I raise a substantial report that was produced in 2017, Finite Lives, by the then Senator, Marie-Louise O'Donnell. It was a substantial body of work, supported by the then Taoiseach Enda Kenny, and its launch was one of his final farewells. It was his largest gathering in the House, with many people packed into the Chamber. The report, which was extensive, examined dying, death, bereavement, the challenges in that context and the need for a major conversation on the subject.

I was reminded of the report in the context of Covid, when many of us lost loved ones during the period and many of us did not have the opportunity to say goodbye. I thank all the people who spent time with people who were dying and coming to the end of their lives. I suggest we have a conversation about the report. I do not believe in rehashing reports. We should dust it down. It is an extensive report and I acknowledge the work that Marie-Louise O'Donnell, the then Senator, carried out in producing it.

One matter that jumped off the page at me when I had another look at the report yesterday related to elder abuse. We need to begin that conversation about dying, death and bereavement, and we need to see it and talk about it in the context of elder abuse. The report quotes somebody as stating, “The older, the poorer, the sicker the higher the level of abuse.” What a terrible thing to have to say, but at least it is out there. It is a challenge and we need to examine it.

I call for a debate in the House on this subject, and this report may be the basis for statements and discussion. Let us examine where we are. The report contains chapters specific to each Department, setting out the aims, objectives and key recommendations for them, and it is as relevant today as it was in 2017.

While on the issue of Covid, I pay tribute to the many healthcare workers who have battled on the front line during the pandemic and saved so many lives. We have lost many people and did not always have the opportunity to say goodbye, and that is something we have to acknowledge and perhaps address as part of our wider debate.

Turning to the Community Call campaign, local government shone at its brightest during that period, when people collaborated and worked together, whether in the case of State agencies or, in particular, volunteers and workers on the front line. I refer to the front line throughout not only the health sector but also the community sector. They came together and gave hope, assistance and practical support. They stood in solidarity with people who were vulnerable and alone, who needed that extra support and encouragement, and I acknowledge that.

I reiterate that the report is the basis for a really good discussion and debate in the House, and I ask the Deputy Leader to consider it.