Clergymen call for Alzheimer centre row to be resolved

SENIOR clergymen in Tralee moved yesterday to resolve a continuing row that could affect services for 17 Alzheimer’s disease patients in the area.

A standoff developed between the North Kerry branch of the Alzheimer Society and the Alzheimer Society of Ireland (ASI) regarding the employment of people over the age of 65 at the Tralee centre.

Both sides responded positively to a joint call for mediation from Monsignor Dan O’Riordan, parish priest at St John’s Tralee; and Church of Ireland rector, Rev Robert Warren.

Locks have been changed and security guards deployed at the Rosemary Day Care Centre for Alzheimer’s patients, at Boherbee, Tralee.

Four members of the local Alzheimer’s branch, including chairman Risteárd Pierse have been barred from entering the premises.

Mons O’Riordan and Rev Warren said they were concerned that the excellent care being provided at the centre may be affected.

“We would urge both sides to considering submitting themselves to a process of mediation,” they added.

Mr Pierse said yesterday: “We are, today, indicating to the ASI head office our willingness to participate in a process of mediation with a view to reaching some reasonable accommodation between the ASI head office and the North Kerry branch.”

In a statement, the ASI gave an assurance that normal services were continuing at the centre and said it was doing everything possible to resolve the dispute.

“This dispute involves a self-appointed committee seeking to establish a breakaway organisation. The ASI insists that there can be no question of the recently-established North Kerry Alzheimer Foundation taking over the operations of the Tralee branch of the national society.”

‘A person should work if they want to work’

AT 79 years, Tralee pensioner Denis Switzer feels he still has something useful to contribute to society.

He is one of four members of the North Kerry branch of the Alzheimer Society prevented from entering the Rosemary Day Care Centre for Alzheimer’s patients, in Tralee.

According to the branch, the national Alzheimer Society has taken issue over a decision to continue employing workers after they reach the age of 65.

“I think this is crazy. A person should work if they want to work, are able to and are able to give satisfaction. Age shouldn’t matter,” he said.

Denis, who spent much of his working life on the clerical staff of McCowens Merchants, in Tralee, has been involved with the local Alzheimer’s branch since 1993 along with his wife, Rose.

“I regret very much what has happened and hope it will not affect the excellent care patients receive there. I’ve given all that I could since I retired from my job and would hope to continue doing so.”