A DONEGAL TD has described as ‘unbelievable’ a decision by the Government to slash funding for security alarms for elderly people.
Government grants have been cut from €2.45 million last year to €1.15 million.
The move comes after a series of robberies of elderly people across Co Donegal in recent days.
Padraig Mac Lochlainn TD, who knows one victim – 96-year-old Greta Lilly – said he was left shocked by the move.
Greta was punched in the ribs by her attacker who made off with her savings.
A panic alarm in her home probably saved her life as neighbours were able to go to her aid within minutes of the attack and call an ambulance.
“This Government has closed 143 Garda stations and Garda numbers and vehicles have been seriously reduced and now the Government is halving the budget for personal security alarms for the elderly. It’s unbelievable,” said Deputy Mac Lochlainn.
The move has been condemned by groups who help older people.
Eamonn Timmins from Age Action Ireland said: “These cuts will undermine the ability of some older people to continue living independently in their own homes, denying them alarms which would provide them with peace of mind.”
In a statement the Carers’ Association said the move was “yet another example of hitting the most vulnerable in society.”
Mrs Lilly meanwhile has moved to a nursing home.
A 48-year-old man arrested over her attack has been released and a file is being prepared for the DPP.
At least eight other older people had their homes targeted in the Raphoe and Convoy areas on Monday.
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