merrion street

Taoiseach Enda Kenny, accompanied by Lord Mayor of Dublin Naoise Ó Muirí, was on hand to plant an Aspen Tree – the leaf of which is the symbol of hope for people with Parkinson’s across the country – at the end of the inaugural Parkinson’s Association of Ireland Unity Walk to St. Stephen’s Green today.

Parkinson’s Disease, for which there is no cure at present, currently affects over 8,000 people in Ireland and incidence rates are expected to double here over the next two decades. It is one of many neurodegenerative disorders which will surpass cancer as the most common group of medical conditions by 2040 (WHO 2004).

Said Taoiseach Enda Kenny:

The number of people with Parkinson's in Ireland is expected to double as the age profile of our country increases and this series of events is about recognising and showing solidarity with the 8,000 people with Parkinson's in Ireland today as well as raising awareness around the country. This is all the more vital because the management of Parkinson's is made easier by early intervention so that people with Parkinson's can live longer and fuller lives.

Up to 200 people with Parkinson’s, as well as friends and family, participated in the Unity Walk from Merrion Street Lower to St. Stephen’s Green, which will culminated with the tree planting by An Taoiseach and Lord Mayor.

For more information on Parkinson’s Disease, or to donate towards the PAI’s fund-raising drive for services, log onto www.parkinsons.ie or contact the Parkinson’s Association of Ireland Helpline 1 800 359 359.