There are almost 400 families in Donegal on a waiting list for Home Help, according to local Councillor, Gary Doherty.
The Sinn Fein representative described the situation as ‘nothing short of disgraceful.’
Cllr Gary Doherty made the claim after figures revealed that a total of 375 people are currently on the waiting list for Home Help across the county. Of this number, 146 are waiting in the Southwest Network, 113 in the East Network, 33 in the North Network and 33 in Inishowen.
“These figures which have been released to Deputy Pearse Doherty show the real impact of the failed policies of the Fianna Fáil/Fine Gael/Green Party coalition on the Irish people,” Cllr Doherty said.
“375 vulnerable people and their caring families are currently in limbo waiting to receive the Home Help services that are absolutely essential to allow them to remain in their own homes or to be safely discharged from hospital.
“These services are vital in ensuring patients with limited mobility can complete everyday tasks such as getting in and out of bed, dressing and undressing and completing personal care tasks such as showering and shaving.”
Cllr Doherty said he has spoken with a family in the last week who are doing their utmost to care for an elderly and infirm relative who has been experiencing significant health issues. This family has done everything they can to care for this patient in his own home, including installing a hospital bed, both for his comfort and to allow for easier access.
“They have applied for and been granted Home Help hours which was a huge boost to them as the Home Care services will be essential in allowing the patient to remain at home,” he said.
“However, to now discover there are 375 patients in the same predicament throughout Donegal and that there is no timeframe for when the Home Care will actually begin is extremely frustrating and disheartening and has left many families feeling despondent.
“To have almost 400 families in Donegal on a waiting list for Home Help is nothing short of disgraceful.
“In recent days the Government parties have been telling us that the country is in good shape at the moment. I would challenge any Government representative to speak to one of these 375 families waiting for Home Help services in Donegal and tell them how great the country is.”
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