Only Labour can deliver a fair and compassionate system to support the elderly – McCarthy

West Cork TD, Michael McCarthy has welcomed the publication of Labour’s plan for an age-friendly society.

“Labour’s plan to raise the State pension to €260 per week is a clear and direct investment in the living standards of older citizens. We want to continue to build a system where older people are supported to live independently at home for as long as they wish, which is why we plan to increase the number of home-help hours available by 50%. We will also launch a new “re-ablement” scheme to help older people who have been hospitalised to return to their own communities.

“Of course, it’s also vital we look out for those older people in need of more consistent support, which is why in government we committed to investing €535million in Community Nursing Units in keeping with our overall commitment to deliver healthcare within the community. We will also continue to implement the National Carers strategy in close partnership with the carers who sacrifice so much for their older family members.

“Only Labour can deliver a fair, compassionate system of age supports that prioritises giving older citizens the tools they need to live independent lives in their own homes and communities.”

Ends

Contact Michael McCarthy at 087 6481004