Aidan Farrelly (Kildare North, Social Democrats)
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162. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the legislative protections that are in place for victims of elder abuse; and if he will further clarify whether the legislation around coercive control extends to children taking care of parents. [14599/25]

Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail)
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Elder abuse causes great harm to the victim, and violates their human and civil rights.

The Health Service Executive leads the government’s approach to tackling elder abuse. Through the establishment of Safeguarding Ireland, the HSE has published a range of information to help those who may be at risk of elder abuse identify that they are a victim and access the supports they need.

If anyone believes they are the victim of elder abuse, or suspect that someone they know may be a victim, they should contact their nearest HSE Safeguarding and Protection Team. Alternatively, they should contact their local health centre, GP, public health nurse or An Garda Síochána and talk to someone about what has been happening.

The Department of Social Protection will also act on any reports it receives of alleged abuse of its pension/benefit recipients, consulting or involving as appropriate other relevant agencies such as the HSE or An Garda Síochána.

Investigations of alleged abuse are coordinated by the Safeguarding Unit in that Department.

While criminal offences in general - including coercion, harassment, theft and so on - apply across the board, including where the victim is an elderly relative or in other situations related to elder abuse, the coercive control legislation specifically applies to a spouse, civil partner or a person who is or was in an intimate relationship with another person. It does not extend to children taking care of parents.

The Programme for Government 2025, "Securing Ireland's Future", includes a commitment to publish a national policy on adult safeguarding for the health and social care sector. My colleagues the Minister for Health and the Minister for Children, Disability, Equality, Integration and Youth are taking this work forward, including a commitment to the preparation of a Health (Adult Safeguarding) Bill.