I raise the case of a 78-year-old man who lives in my area. He contacted me approximately six months ago. He is the sole carer for his 45-year-old daughter, who has a diagnosis of Down’s syndrome. Three years previously, he applied for residential care for her because he felt that, as he is getting older, he will not be able to care for her and he wishes to see her settled in case anything happens to him. I contacted the HSE in February in this regard and received a response one month later. The HSE outlined that it had carried out assessments on his daughter, prepared a business case proposal and reached out to providers. I thought there was movement at last. The HSE said it had spoken with the father, and I confirmed that with him. We thought there was finally movement after over three years.

This week, however, he contacted me again to say that nothing has happened since - not a word. He is under the impression that a provider has been identified but there could be budgetary issues. We are not absolutely clear in this regard. This man has been unwell recently. He was in hospital a few weeks ago for tests and he has to return in another two weeks for more tests. He does not know how serious it is but his medical team are quite worried. He is concerned now more than ever about the care of his daughter. The HSE’s initial response to this case was to ask why his other daughters could not look after her. They do not live in the area and it is not their responsibility. This woman is entitled to have a setting prepared for her.

I think this man contacted me because he heard me speaking about the Before We Die campaign. His is just one example, however. There are many others in similar situations. We need to look at this issue again. I would love a debate in this Chamber with the Minister on providing residential care for adults with intellectual disabilities who are still living with elderly parents. This should be planned for. It should not be left until the parent is too old to look after that person, causing them to be stressed and worried because they do not know what is going to happen to their child after they die.

In the time remaining, I wish to commend Nikita Hand on her interview on “Prime Time” last night. She was excellent. She is a very brave woman. She has to be commended on standing up as she did, taking the civil action and then giving the interview. She has also written her memoir. She is a great example to others who find themselves in this situation. Sexual violence and abuse is far too prevalent. Often, victim-blaming is still very much at large. I commend her.