The creation of a national fund for children with life-limiting conditions has been proposed by two organisations for sick children, supported by TD Denis Naughten.
The Jack and Jill Foundation and Lauralynn House, Ireland’s children’s hospice, are supporting the creation of the fund, which would see more sick children able to stay at home rather than in hospital.
Representatives from the two groups, as well as Mr Naughten, have written to Minister for Health James Reilly outlining why they believe the cost-neutral proposal is a good idea.
The proposal would see the creation of a national homecare budget for children with life-limiting conditions.
Lauralynn’s chief executive, Philomena Dunne, said many sick children were unable to spend what might be their last Christmas at home. “It is a terrible indictment on this country that this can happen. We need to make sure that we are not here again next November discussing the same matter,” she said. “These children are our unsung little heroes.”
While money was being provided for sick children and their families, their needs were not being met, said Mr Naughten.
