Nursing Homes Ireland Highlights Key Election Policies for the Future of Nursing Home Care
Thursday November 28, 2024Nursing Homes Ireland (NHI) has published its commentary on the key proposals from political party manifestos ahead of the upcoming General Election, focusing on the critical importance of nursing home care and older person care in Ireland’s policy landscape.
The document, now available to our members, offers an overview of each party’s commitments regarding nursing home care, older person care, workforce planning, healthcare access, and the implementation of Sláintecare. Rather than critiquing the manifestos, the commentary provides a balanced and informative guide to help members understand the potential impact of these policies on the future of nursing home care.
As part of its advocacy efforts, NHI has been actively engaging with political parties to ensure the sustainability and integration of nursing home care into Ireland’s continuum of care for older people. A cornerstone of this advocacy is the urgent call for the release of the long-overdue Fair Deal pricing review within 100 days of the new Government forming. This review is essential to addressing the sector’s financial challenges and achieving fair and sustainable funding for nursing home care.
To amplify this message, NHI is encouraging members to engage with their local candidates during the final days of the election campaign. Inviting candidates to visit nursing homes, sharing the challenges and opportunities facing the sector, and highlighting the urgent need for reforms—such as those outlined in the “It’s Not Fair” Campaign—are critical steps in ensuring nursing home care remains a national priority.
NHI Chair Tadhg Daly states in the foreword to the document:
“With less than a week to go, it is vital that we remain engaged and continue to advocate for policies that will positively impact our residents, staff, and the communities we serve.”
As the nation prepares to cast its vote, NHI’s manifesto commentary underscores the essential role of nursing home care within Ireland’s healthcare system and the need for strategic policy development to secure its future.