Vol. 517 No. 4
99 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to figures showing that the life expectancy gap for people aged over 65 is widening when compared to other western and northern European countries; the research, if any, undertaken to identify the causes of this; the proposals, if any, he has to deal with it; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9907/00]
I would like to assure the Deputy that I am acutely aware the life expectancy gap for Irish people aged over 65 is widening when compared to our European counterparts. This fact was highlighted in both the report of the cardiovascular health strategy group – Building Healthier Hearts 1999 and in the Annual Report of the Chief Medical Officer 1999.
Cancer, cardiovascular diseases and accidents are the major causes of premature death in Ireland. Considerable improvements have taken place in the delivery of cancer services since the national cancer strategy was launched in 1996. Some £41 million of dedicated funding has been allocated to develop a range of cancer services throughout the country.
When the cardiovascular health strategy was launched in July of last year, my Department set a medium term objective – to bring our levels of premature deaths from cardiovascular disease in line with the EU average at a minimum. Our longer-term objective is to reduce our rates to those of the best performers in the EU. At age 65, Ireland has the lowest life expectancy in the EU with the single biggest contributor being heart disease. There is room for major improvements before we attain the average life expectancy enjoyed by our European neighbours. Our overall goal is to achieve life expectancy which at a minimum compares with the EU average. The challenge now is to implement the recommendations of the cardiovascular health strategy group by developing structures and mechanisms which promote cardiovascular health, reduce inequalities, ensure a high quality of service provision and reduce variations in access to and quality of services.
A sum of £12 million has been provided to commence the implementation process in 2000. I am confident that over the coming years the necessary funding will be provided to allow us to achieve our goals particularly in relation to life expectancy.
