Press Release

Older people in Galway have criticised lengthy waiting times and high parking costs in a survey of their experiences in local hospitals published by Age Action today who called on hospitals to end the block-booking of appointments.

Age Action called for better training and effective workplace equality policies in residential care homes for older people, as it published a new report on migrant care workers today.

Age Action has called for continued Government investment in computer training for older people as a new Eurostat report, published today, shows older people in Ireland lagging behind their EU counterparts.

While Age Action welcomed this morning’s commitment from Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection Joan Burton to partially restore the Christmas bonus, the organisation warned that it falls far short of what is needed to restore the incomes of Ireland’s older people.

Ireland rose two places to 15th in the annual Global AgeWatch Index, published this morning by HelpAge International, despite the country’s overall score dropping slightly.

Age Action has responded to media reports this morning that State transport providers are seeking restrictions on the operation of the free travel scheme.

The government must act now to show commitment to older people in public nursing homes and prevent the looming crisis in long term care of older people.

Age Action today welcomed the launch of free access to GP services for people over 70.

Responding to this afternoon’s HIQA report on Sacred Heart nursing home in Roscommon, Justin Moran, Head of Advocacy and Communications, said: “This is the second HIQA report in four days that highlights inadequate facilities in a HSE-run nursing home. 

Age Action has welcomed this morning’s publication of the Government’s review of the Nursing Home Support Scheme, known as the Fair Deal scheme.