Needs of those with disabilities and their carers must be prioritised says Tipperary TD
Tipperary TD Michael Lowry is calling for increased and long-term focus on those with disabilities and their carers when the new government is in place
The needs of people of all ages with disabilities and those who care for them have become a central issue throughout this Election Campaign. This will hopefully result in an increased and long-term focus when the new Government is in place.
Deputy Michael Lowry, who has consistently raised this matter during the terms of the last and previous Governments, says he is encouraged to see an increased focus on this area. "Keeping this matter on the agenda in the Dáil is crucial, and I
have taken every opportunity to do so.
"This is a matter that I have always felt deeply about, and I am heartened to see more candidates now committing to support people with both physical and intellectual disabilities and the family members who care for them.
"No area is immune to these issues. Deficiencies in the availability of essential assessments, assistance, training and support for people of all ages with disabilities are growing.
"Alarmingly, figures released this week have shown that over 13,000 children are waiting for first contact from Child Disability Network Teams (CDNT).
"I have met with and spoken to many families across North Tipperary and North West Kilkenny over the course of this Election Campaign. This matter has been raised more frequently over the course of this campaign than in any other I have
been involved in over the years.
Mr. Lowry outlined that many parents are reaching out to his office for help to get their loved ones the services that they need.
"This lack of basic support can result in increased pressure on home carers, who are crying out for help. Right across the country, people with both physical and intellectual disabilities are being cared for in their homes. In many cases, parents
are sole carers for children, while adult children often provide home care for elderly parents who may have become less able-bodied." said Lowry.
Recently in discussions about the budget, Mr. Lowry asked for an " increase in the Carer’s Support Grant and the introduction of a Cost of Disability payment.
"Providing for the needs of those with disabilities and, equally, for those that provide their day-to-day care, has always been and always will be a priority for me" concludes Deputy Lowry.