Mike Kennelly (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister of State and congratulate him on his appointment. I know from the last Ministry he held that the elderly are in good hands. Seanad Éireann acknowledges the contribution older people have made to Irish society. They have shaped the country's economic, cultural and social fabric. Our elderly have historically been active in their local communities, contributing through volunteerism, organising social events and participating in religious community organisations. In our society older people serve as a foundation of family life. They play key roles in raising children and providing stability, often as caretakers for their own grandchildren.They have built this country to where it is right now. Honouring our older generation is something deeply rooted in Irish culture. Ireland was the first country to be designated age-friendly status in 2019 and we have continued this. Ireland will host the WHO global age-friendly conference in 2025. In the programme for Government, we are committed to advancing our social core models, which support older people to live full and independent lives with the correct wrap-around supports.

How can Ireland meet future care needs? The programme for Government states that we will support older people to live at home and in their own communities. The best way to achieve this is to increase the housing adaptation grant, which has been mentioned several times in these contributions. In recent times, the grants have been improved. I thank the Government for doing that. It does not get too many claps. Increased funding and broader eligibility criteria are making it easier for people to access financial supports for necessary modifications. Unfortunately, however, the costs are out of reach now for most of the works that have been permitted and approved. For example, the cost of a level access shower five years ago was completely different from the cost right now. People cannot afford it. These grants are a crucial tool in allowing people to remain in their homes longer, which is a key factor in promoting independent living and improving quality of life for the elderly and those with disabilities. Offering these grants will encourage preventative care, helping individuals make necessary adjustments before health problems become severe. This proactive approach will reduce long-term healthcare costs. I have seen first hand what the housing adaptation grants can do for people. It is a game-changer for people living alone to know they can stay in their house full-time. If the grants can be increased again in 2025, within budget restraints, it will mean that people can stay in their homes longer. The works I have seen first hand, as I was saying to Senator Nelson Murray-----