117. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Health the number of people issued with a home care package but unable to fulfil it due to staffing shortages, or other reasons, in 2024 and to date in 2025; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23593/25]

Sentiment score: 0.04

I wish to ask the Minister the number of people issued with a home care package but unable to fulfil it due to staffing shortages or other reasons in 2024 and to date in 2025 and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Sentiment score: 0.33

It is significant. It is acknowledged that the figures are always very high. We are talking about millions of hours of home care packages and these are real services and important ones. We must always think about these things, though, in terms of unmet need. The system does not work if these services are not in place. Is there an analysis of whether there are specific geographical challenges and-or challenges with specific service areas? Is it in complex needs, for example? Does it involve people coming out of hospital and going into the community? Are there particular areas where challenges are encountered? Is it in disability services or care of the elderly, for example?

Sentiment score: 0.15

Yes, I am.

Sentiment score: 0.40

Some things are coming through these figures consistently. There is a pattern within them. I expect this would be the case if we were to look at the geographic variation. I know much of the challenge in CHO 8 concerns the fact that it is very difficult to get staff because it is exceptionally expensive to live in Dublin or the greater Dublin area. There is then a variation across the State in the demographic and the demand on these services. It is incredibly important that these supports are in place when needed because they are so vital to ensuring the overall system functions properly and people have the care as close to home as possible. On recruitment and retention of staff into these services, I know there were recent announcements about companies opening up in the sector, which are welcome, but it is a question of general recruitment and retention and the recent pay negotiations.

Sentiment score: 0.13