Sarah O'Reilly (Aontú)

I second the Senator's proposal.

I welcome the announcement by the Minister of State, Deputy O'Donnell, that implementation of the national dementia registry is to commence. Organisations such as the Alzheimer's Society of Ireland, ASI, have lobbied for it for a long time. The ASI is a brilliant organisation doing great work. It has the voice of people with dementia and those who care and support them at its core. Dementia is progressive and there is no cure. Demands for supports are increasing, with 64,000 people with dementia in Ireland. This is forecast to more than double to 150,000 by 2050. We need to prepare. Some 63% of people with dementia live at home in our communities, with over 180,000 people in Ireland caring for a family member or partner with dementia. Many more people are providing support and care in other ways. We know that the family carers of people living with dementia are often unprepared for their new role. They must adapt to enormous changes in their relationship with the person living with dementia. All of this contributes to stress, strain and carer burden. I know of many cases of couples in their 80s where one partner is the sole carer and many simply cannot cope. While this may be bittersweet to watch, they need more support. Action is required to address the workforce challenges in home care, including training, career pathways, recruitment, retention and funding. We need more services that are dementia-specific for day care. Investing in dementia services now will help to alleviate pressure on residential care and help those who are most vulnerable at home. Home care and respite services are vital supports for carers and families, providing social interaction and rest that can make a hugely positive difference to people's lives and is much needed. The Government needs to commit to funding more of these essential services.