Aubrey McCarthy (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I extend my gratitude to the Minister of State for joining us for this crucial motion on care, support and enhanced provision of services for older people, which I am totally supportive of. Our ageing population presents challenges and opportunities, as has been outlined by many Members. It is a privilege to contribute to this important discussion.

I highlight the extraordinary contribution, which has been mentioned, made by family carers and professional caregivers across our country. Every single day thousands of carers provide selfless, compassionate support to older individuals. This must not, and does not, go unnoticed. They do so at a significant cost, sacrificing their well-being, financial security and, often, career opportunities. Without their unwavering dedication our health and social care systems would unravel and collapse under the pressure, so we owe more than just words of gratitude; we owe concrete support and that is what this motion is about. That is why respite care and financial assistance are essential. The introduction of a non-means tested carer’s allowance would be a huge transformative step in recognising the carers’ invaluable work.

I draw the Minister of State’s attention to a heartbreaking issue I come across daily through my work at Tiglin at the Lighthouse, namely, elderly homelessness. Often when housing and homelessness are being discussed we do not focus on the older cohort. Many of those we see queuing for food at our Lighthouse café on Pearse Street are older individuals. They are part of a growing number of long-term homeless in our society. Just last night the Lighthouse organised a tradfest for the St. Patrick’s celebrations and we had jigs, reels and lovely music. It was organised by Councillor Clodagh Ní Mhuirí and our manager Allen Bobinac. It was a wonderful occasion and I was deeply grateful to the musicians and volunteers but it is sad to see so many older people coming along to events like these. Even though they are uplifting events, it is essential they remind us of the need for lasting solutions for accommodation, etc., and care allowances. We urgently need to develop more age-friendly housing and liveable communities. The right housing stock, which should be affordable, accessible and located in key areas and in walking distance of key amenities, is essential and can enable older people to downsize if they wish while maintaining their independence and also their quality of life. I have been working with Wicklow County Council on discussions on liveable communities that cater for all generations and I am excited about that going forward, though I realise there is a mountain to climb and a lot of work lies ahead.In this context, I also commend exceptional initiatives like the McAuley Place initiative in Naas. It is an innovative community which integrates housing and social engagement for older people. It ensures that not only do they have a safe and comfortable home but also access to activities, amenities and opportunity. The facility in Naas has its own art and lifestyle centre where we have regular concerts. It has a volunteer-run café with the most amazing home-baked food. It is all designed to foster a sense of belonging, connection and well-being for the elderly residents. McAuley Place was the brainchild of one lady called Margharita Solon who had issues with her own family regarding care. She campaigned for years to make life better for the older generations. That is why McAuley Place shines as an example of what we can do. If the Minister of State has not visited it, I would urge him to do so. It has the full support of the business community in Naas, of which I am one, and also Kildare County Council. It is a model that could be replicated in every county in Ireland.

The issues that I have raised and other Senator have raised align closely with the programme for Government. I urge the Minister of State to prioritise these commitments and take decisive action during this Seanad term. I echo Senator Boyhan’s request that he come back to the Chamber within six months and we address this so together we can ensure that older people in Ireland are supported, respected and empowered to live full meaningful lives.