Professor Mary McCarron appointed to the Commission on Care for Older People

Posted on: 11 March 2024

Professor McCarron was announced as one of 12 members of the new commission, which will provide expert recommendations to help Ireland prepare for the care of an ageing population, which will include a growing number of older adults with an intellectual disability.

Professor McCarron (pictured) who is the Professor of Ageing and Intellectual Disability, Director of the Trinity Centre for Ageing and Intellectual Disability and Executive Director of the National Intellectual Disability Memory Service, said:

"Being appointed to the Commission on Care for Older People is an honour, as it represents a crucial opportunity to ensure that as we address the pressing needs of our ageing population, we include those ageing  with intellectual disabilities. A richer society is one where everyone, regardless of ability, is supported . I firmly believe that adults with intellectual disabilities should have the opportunity to live in homes of their choice, within their communities, surrounded by family and friends. I am a strong advocate that together, we can effect real change and build a society that values and supports every individual enjoying meaningful engagement, lifelong learning, and dignity as they age."

Minister for Health, Stephen Donnelly, said:

"I am really pleased to announce the appointment of such a distinguished group of experts to the Commission. As leaders in their respective fields, they will bring to the Commission a wealth of knowledge and experience across specialities as diverse as geriatrics, gerontology, health economics, health policy and management, primary care, health ethics, health technologies, and ageing and disability. The appointment of representatives of the community and voluntary sectors and of older people will ensure that Commission’s work is informed by the lived experience of people across Ireland."

Minister of State for Mental Health and Older People, Mary Butler, said:

"With their breadth of expertise and experience, the members of the Commission will ensure that the Commission’s recommendations are informed by emerging good practice and lessons learnt nationally and internationally. Most importantly, I am confident that the Commission and the Reference Group will ensure the voice of older people themselves is heard. I look forward to the establishment of the Commission in the coming weeks and to receiving their reports in due course."

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