On 14 November 2023, The Alzheimer Society of Ireland (The ASI) delivered a Dementia Awareness ‘Learn, Listen, Link’ training in Leinster House at the Irish Government Buildings in Dublin. The session was hosted by Senator Fiona O’Loughlin, the Chair of the All-Party Oireachtas Group on Dementia. Team ASI was pleased to join Minister of State Mary Butler TD to welcome TDs, Senators, and political staff to the training, which was delivered by The ASI’s External Learning & Development Manager Dr Fergus Timmons. Minister Mary Butler also addressed the audience in relation to ongoing support and funding for people living with dementia and the importance of building understanding and cross-party Oireachtas support for dementia.
During the session, advocates and couple Gerry and Nuala Paley, who were interviewed by The ASI’s Advocacy Manager Clodagh Whelan, highlighted the importance of having Dementia Inclusive Communities. Gerry, a member of The Irish Dementia Working Group, spoke about how his community plays a significant role as he navigates life with dementia. Nuala, a member of The Dementia Carers Campaign Network, discussed the needs of dementia carers in Ireland today. The Dementia Awareness Training session saw wonderful collaboration between The ASI’s Advocacy, Research & Public Affairs team and colleagues from HR, Learning & Development, and Operations.
