Published on Thursday3rdDecember2015
Taoiseach launches "Finite Lives" - a study on how the State deals with end of life issues
The Taoiseach Enda Kenny speaking at the launch of the report
A new report has revealed that there is no co-ordinated end-of-life training for Civil Service line managers, calling for a strategic and co-ordinated approach to end of life issues in all Government Departments and Agencies.
The report arises from a study initiated by the Taoiseach earlier this year, and was written by Senator Marie Louise O'Donnell.
Taoiseach Enda Kenny launched the report today in Dublin Castle. He called it "an enlightening and very human report which illustrates the all-pervasive nature of support needed at our most testing moments". Speaking at the event, the Taoiseach noted that the study was "already changing practice within the civil service".
A second part to the report will be completed early next year and will explore how the state interacts with people facing dying, death and bereavement, to identify gaps and to suggest developments for the future.
The report says that Departments and Agencies should use the Irish Hospice Foundation Think Ahead programme to help staff plan for end of life. The programme helps people plan and record their wishes in the event of serious illness or death.
Read the press release here for more information.