Talks are being held today to discuss a new volunteer hospital-patient support group.
Former taoiseach Albert Reynolds and Siptu national industry secretary Matt Merrigan will be among those meeting the Health Service Executive to finalise plans for the formation of Cairde.
St James's in Dublin and Ennis Hospital in Clare have been chosen as the first facilities to be part of the six-month pilot programme.
Mr Reynolds, who represents Ireland's Children for Children and Adult Care Foundation, said: "We are delighted to take part in this programme and hope it will bring support to hospital staff, visitors and most importantly patients."
Volunteers working with the scheme will be fully trained and will provide patient support to those who might need help with daily activities.
Volunteer programmes like Cairde have been successful in the United States and Canada, and the group has developed links with some of their counterparts in the United States.