Cystic Fibrosis Fundraising Appeal – 65 Roses

March 23, 2020.

Deputy Marc Ó Cathasaigh TD attended the launch of the Cystic Fibrosis Ireland Fundraising Appeal – 65 Roses Day – which takes place on Friday April 10^th. The appeal, which takes it’s name from how children often first say the words ‘Cystic Fibrosis’, sees volunteers selling purple roses to raise funds for vital Cystic Fibrosis services. Ireland has the highest incidence of CF per capita in the world as well as having some of the most severe types of the condition.

Speaking after the launch, Deputy Ó Cathasaigh said that ‘I will be contacting the Cystic Fibrosis centre in Waterford to ask about their level of preparedness ahead of any spread of the Coronavirus Covid 19. One of the central requests from CFI was that there be more consultation with at-risk groups ahead of any spread of the virus’.

He went on to say…‘We welcome Minister for Health Simon Harris’ move to brief at-risk groups but it’s my concern that staff at University Hospital Waterford are supported in making appropriate provisions’.

Deputy Ó Cathasaigh has had a busy start to his term in Dáil Éireann. ‘We have had an intense fortnight of exploratory talks with all parties. I think it’s important to have a voice for Waterford in these discussions and I’ll be continuing to put forward the interests of our city and county in any future engagements.’

Figures from the Cystic Fibrosis Ireland website indicate that…

• Ireland has among some of the most severe strains of CF and also has the highest incidence (per head of population) of CF in the world, with three times the rate of the United States and the rest of the European Union.
• Approximately 1,300 children and adults in Ireland are living with the condition.
• About 25 new cases of Cystic Fibrosis are diagnosed in Ireland each year.
• Around 55% of the CF patient population in Ireland is aged 18 or older.