Alzheimer Society Memory Walk will be on Sunday 21 st September.
MEP Nina Carberry has urged the European Commission to establish a dedicated research ‘mission’ on dementia within the EU Horizon programme. This would mark the first time EU funding is ring fenced for the disease. The call comes ahead of World Alzheimer’s Day on Sunday 21st September, when MEP Carberry will join the National Memory Walk in Ratoath.
During a debate in the European Parliament this week, Budget Commissioner Piotr Serafin acknowledged dementia research as an important EU competence and confirmed he would raise Carberry’s proposal with his fellow Commissioners. Speaking after the debate, MEP Carberry described the response as a “huge step forward” in prioritising dementia research and support. “We have made significant strides in understanding dementia, but these will only matter if Europe is ready to act.
“That means establishing a dedicated research ‘mission’ on dementia within Horizon Europe. A mission that can support organisations like Dementia Research Network Ireland, leading work on aftercare, respite, research, and policy reforms to improve quality of life.
“Caregivers carry double the emotional, financial, and physical stress. This support is vital for them too”, she added.
The Meath MEP noted that the EU already has a cancer ‘mission’ with clear objectives and pillars covering prevention, early detection, diagnosis, and treatment. “We need the same action plan for dementia at the EU level”, she concluded.
