John Lahart (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)
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89. To ask the Minister for Health the plans that are in place to further develop dementia services in 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61036/22]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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Following unprecedented investment in dementia services and supports in Budgets 2021 and 2022, the Government will continue to focus on enhancing dementia care for people with dementia in 2023.

New funding of €2.1 million has been allocated in Budget 2023 to ensure that dementia-specific day care centres can return to full operational capacity. Dementia in-home day care supports will also continue for those who are unable to attend centre-based day care. 

Furthermore, the proportion of new home support hours allocated to people with dementia will increase to 15% in 2023, up from 5% in 2021 and 11% in 2022. This increase is valued at €5.2 million.

Work will also continue in 2023 to further implement the National Dementia Strategy, with a focus on assessment, diagnosis and post-diagnostic supports and care initiatives to ensure timely access, reduce waiting times and improve the quality of care provided to people with dementia. 

A Model of Care to advance treatment, care and support for people with dementia will also be published early in 2023.

I am confident that these measures will make a real difference to the lives of people with dementia and their families.