This book describes the history and development of palliative care services in the Republic of Ireland. Written from a multi-professional perspective the book appeals to anyone with an interest in hospice and palliative care in Ireland. In attempting to explore what is different about Irish palliative care, this book delves into the cultural, religious and social factors particular to modern Ireland, from the historical roots of the Irish palliative care movement through to the publication of the Government's 'blueprint' for the future development of services. Palliative Care In Ireland explores the provision of palliative care services, bereavement, the influence of folklore, holistic care, faith, religion and spirituality, and the important contributions of the voluntary sector. The changing face of Ireland is described and challenges ahead are considered. This is the first book to truly capture the Irish dimension and is essential reading for those in emerging services worldwide where similar challenges are faced and where local and national influences determine the uniqueness of a particular model of service delivery. The book is key reading for students and researchers as well as all those involved in the delivery and management of palliative care services. Contributors: Jide Afolabi, Maria Bailey, Frank Brennan, David Clark, Sinead Donnelly, Matthew Farrelly, Stephen Higgins, Jacqueline Holmes, Kaye Kealy, Michael Kearney, Ann Keating, Orla Keegan, Christy Kenneally, Philip Larkin, Peter Lawlor, Julie Ling, Anna-Marie Lynch, John McCormack, Regina McQuillan, Michael J. Murphy, Tony O'Brien, Eileen O'Leary, Liam O'Siorain, Maeve O'Reilly, Patrick J Quinlan, Deirdre Rowe, Siobhan Sheehan, Geraldine Tracey, Onja Van Doorslaer, Eithne Walsh.

Notes on the contributors Series editor's preface Acknowledgements ForewordIntroduction Part I:Palliative care development - the Irish experience A national plan for palliative care - the Irish experience The Voluntary sector Managing palliative care services in the Irish Republic Part II: Service delivery Urban Home Carein the Republic of Ireland Home care in rural Ireland In-patient palliative care units Hospital based palliative care teams Palliative carefor children in the Irish Republic Day hospice as an integrated model of care Palliative care teamwork in the Republic of Ireland - the key to physical and psychological function Part III: Beliefs and bereavement The bereavement journey: the Irish experience Religion faith and spirituality: 'a difficult journey' Whole person care: the Irish dimension Irish travellers and specialist palliative care services Irish traditions on dying and death - relevance to palliative care Part four: Future challenges and developmentsMulticultural Ireland - weaving the fabric of diversity Medical education in the republic of Ireland Palliative nurse education in the Republic of Ireland Reflections from abroad The future of palliative care in Ireland Index