Ireland is at a critical juncture in its management of the care of the elderly, says Jim Daly, newly appointed chair of Home and Community Care Ireland.
The HCCI is the representative body for the home care sector. Its 23 member companies employ 10,000 carers and provide a managed home care service to 20,000 older and vulnerable people in Ireland.
“I am acutely aware of the significant and important role care in the home will continue to play in the lives of older people for decades to come,” said Jim Daly, the former Minister for Mental Health and Older People.
“Ireland is at a critical juncture when it comes to care of the elderly with many lessons learned during the COVID pandemic. The importance of the next phase of development of home care including regulation and entitlement by statute cannot be underestimated and I look forward to being part of this transition while serving as chair of HCCI.”
HCCI advocates for a managed, regulated home care service in Ireland and supports the implementation of a statutory home care scheme.
During his time in government, Jim Daly promoted a community-based care model and has long recognised the critical importance of home care to individuals’ health and wellbeing.
The pandemic has highlighted the resilience and safety of home care with peak client infections never going beyond 1% at any stage of the pandemic across HCCI’s 20,000 client base.
Joseph Musgrave, CEO of HCCI, said: “Jim’s vision for accessible, high quality and person-centred home care for all is one that is matched by HCCI and its members. I am delighted Jim has taken on the role of Chair as we enter a crucial phase for home care in Ireland.
“The successful roll-out of significantly increased home care hours as set out under Sláintecare, as well as the statutory home care scheme currently under development, will require commitment and collaboration between HCCI, HSE and the Government and Jim’s experience and expertise will be very beneficial to this end.”