The Alzheimer Society of Ireland (The ASI) welcomed the announcement by Minister of State for Older People and Housing, Kieran O'Donnell TD, to move forward with the implementation of a National Dementia Registry for Ireland. A National Dementia Registry is critical to mapping available services, identifying key needs and ensuring equitable access to care, and will be essential in guiding all aspects of dementia service provision and future planning. For several years, The ASI has advocated for the creation of such a registry, recognising that being able to quantify the number of people diagnosed with dementia in Ireland and their geographical locations will enable a more responsive and effective allocation of resources and services. This significant announcement represents an important step forward in improving access to vital services and supports for people living with dementia in Ireland. The Minister’s proactive engagement and interest in this issue are very encouraging.
Commenting on the announcement, The ASI CEO Andy Heffernan said: “I am very encouraged by the announcement by Minister O’Donnell to commence the National Dementia Registry. The development of a registry is essential to support the development, operation and quality of dementia-related health and social care services. In 2016, The ASI commissioned a study establishing the feasibility of a National Dementia Registry. A report published by The HSE in 2021 outlined a National Dementia Registry model, the required minimum dataset, costs and recommendations. The ability to quantify the number of people diagnosed with dementia in Ireland and where they live will facilitate responsive and appropriate allocation of resources and service planning. A National Dementia Registry will underpin all aspects of dementia service provision and planning and ensure an equitable approach. The new registry will assist in addressing service gaps and help to plan services for the increasing number of people with dementia across Ireland. The ASI has lobbied for several years on this issue, and it is included as a key commitment in the programme for Government. The ASI is very encouraged by the Minister’s engagement and interest in progressing this area.”
