Fianna Fáil TD for Cavan and Monaghan, Brendan Smith has welcomed additional funding of €7.3m for dementia services, adding that he recognises the growing need for improved services across the country.

Deputy Brendan Smith commented, “In response to a query, my party colleague and Minister for Health, Stephen Donnelly, has informed me of a further €7.3m in additional funding for dementia services as part of Budget 2022.

“This investment will continue to improve access to diagnostic services and post-diagnostic supports for people with dementia across the country. The details are set to be finalised over the coming weeks with the HSE through the National Service Plan process.” 

The Cavan and Monaghan TD added: “In addition, Budget 2022 will increase the ringfencing of new home support hours for people with dementia from 5% in 2021 to 11% in 2022. Taken together, this will represent €15 million of investment dedicated to dementia in 2022, to supplement the €12.9 million of additional funding in 2021. I would like to thank Minister Donnelly and Minister of State with Responsibility for Mental Health and Older People, Mary Butler, for their work in this regard.”

ENDS 

29/10/2021