Robert Troy
Question:35. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Health when the National Palliative Care Strategy will be published. [19838/24]
View answerThursday, 2 May 2024
Questions (35, 68)
David Cullinane
Question:68. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Health when he will publish a new palliative care policy for adults; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19775/24]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 35 and 68 together.
Publication of a new National Palliative Care Policy is a Programme for Government commitment. It is expected to be published in the coming months.
The new policy will consider both the needs of people with a serious illness and that of their carer. It will address service demands arising from the projected increase in Ireland’s older population, and the number of people with life limiting conditions who would benefit from palliative care.
The policy sets out a future vision for palliative care in Ireland reflecting the many developments in end-of-life care and international best practice. Our policy aligns with the aims of Sláintecare in providing equal access to high quality palliative care for everyone who needs it. We want to ensure that people do not face financial hardship as a result of their illness.
This year, the government allocated the highest ever palliative care budget of €155.5 million. My department will continue to progress developments for palliative care services in Ireland. We will work towards the highest possible quality of end-of-life care and support for people with life limiting illnesses across the country.