Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 2 May 2024
71. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Health if he will consider the merit of a broader mandate for the commission to cover positive ageing in the round instead of the narrow mandate of caring; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19861/24]
View answerIn fulfilment of the commitment in the Programme for Government, the Government has established an independent Commission on Care for Older People. In Budget 2024 €1.243 million was allocated to the Commission, which is being supported by a secretariat from my Department.
The Commission is chaired by Professor Alan Barrett (Chief Executive Officer, Economic and Social Research Institute) and is comprised of independent experts. Collectively the members of the Commission provide expertise across the areas of geriatrics, gerontology, health economics, health policy and management, primary care, health ethics, health technologies, and ageing and disability, as well as representation of the community and voluntary sector and of older people.
The Commission is charged with examining the provision of health and social care services and supports for older people and make recommendations to the Government for their strategic development. Subsequently a Cross-Departmental Group will be established under the auspices of the Commission to consider whether the supports for positive ageing across the life course are fit-for-purpose and to develop a costed implementation plan for options to optimise these supports. Engagement and collaboration with stakeholders will be a central component of the work of the Commission.
The inaugural meeting of the Commission was held on 21st March 2024 and the second meeting was convened on 26th April 2024.
