Sir, – Last summer I went into the Community Nursing Unit in Abbeyleix, Co Laois. Operating four days a week, the day care patients came in on a specific day. The bus driver set up the microphone and clapped his hands. “Right,” he said, eyes twinkling wickedly, “Who’ll sing for us?” Dinner was supplied, as well as tea and buns. For the majority of these people, it was (and remains) their only social outlet.
I was told the HSE wouldn’t allow new employment, but I asked if could work voluntarily. Less than a month later I was handed a tin whistle, and in front of a group of 40 elderly people bade to play alongside two skilled flute players. Every time I was there, I saw the kindness of the staff as well as the vivacity, life experience and wit of each of the residents. I grew as fond of them as of my own grandparents.
I understand how constrained Ireland is. I ask myself, “why is this cause more important than another?” and I have come to a conclusion. The Students’ Union in my college has been urging students to take part in the march to protest against cuts in third-level education. Without my grant, I would find it difficult to attend college. Yet, I have decided I will not join the march. I will, however, fight to keep Abbeyleix Community Nursing Unit open. I appreciate we must make sacrifices to keep this country from drowning. However, not everything can be cast aside as a “cost-saving measure”. The staff, the community, and above all, the residents will be deprived of something that cannot be sacrificed. The Government must prioritise.
The residents are vociferous in their desire to stay in what is, essentially, their home (Home News, November 11th). Some things happen because one must think of the monetary profit or loss. Some things happen because it is simply the right thing to do. – Yours, etc,