Kilkenny TD calls for reversal ‘Scrooge-like’ decision to cut off blister pack support

Sinn Féin TD Natasha Newsome Drennan has said the government must immediately reverse its cruel decision to withdraw funding for blister packs before real harm is done.

Deputy Newsome Drennan described it as a ‘Scrooge-like’ decision in the run up to Christmas, adding that the government has billions for developers, banks and landlords, yet when it comes to vital supports for the most vulnerable, suddenly they’re penny-pinching.

She said the outburst of public anger this week after this decision lays bare the real fear that this will cause serious distress and hardship for some of the most vulnerable and hard-pressed households.

Sinn Féin will bring forward a Dáil motion today (December 16) calling on the government to immediately reverse this decision and to ensure that those who need them continue to receive blisterpacks free of charge.

Deputy Newsome Drennan called on local government TDs - to listen to people’s lived reality, support this motion and put pressure on their government colleagues to reverse this decision.

 Deputy Newsome Drennan said:

“For thousands of people in Ireland, blister packs are a lifeline.  They are not a luxury.  People rely on them every day – older people managing multiple medications, people living with dementia or Alzheimer’s, people with disabilities, mobility issues, brain injuries, or mental health challenges.  For many, blister packs are what allow them to live independently and safely in their own homes.

“We have heard stories from across the country in recent days.  People who have relied on blister packs now feel abandoned.  Families caring for loved ones are facing new costs which they cannot afford, at the most expensive time of year, in the middle of a cost of living crisis. 

“The government’s cruel decision to shut off all funding support for blister packs is going to damage people’s lives.

“The government found billions for developers, banks and landlords in the recent budget - but now when it comes to older people, people with dementia, and people with disabilities, the approach suddenly becomes penny-pinching. 

“The contrast could not be starker.  This is a political choice, not a financial necessity.  It is not right.  It is not fair.  And it needs to be stopped.

“Sinn Féin Health warned in October that it would be a serious mistake to cut off this funding.  The government chose to ignore that warning.

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“This decision was also taken without any proper consultation, impact assessment or plan for those who depend on blister packs.  It will undermine independence and autonomy, increase pressure on family carers, and lead to avoidable GP visits and hospital admissions.

“I am urging all of local TDs to listen to people’s lived reality and support our motion on Tuesday calling for this decision to be reversed until a permanent solution is in place to protect people from real and unnecessary harm.”