Skip to main content
Normal View

Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 26 Oct 1972

Vol. 263 No. 2

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Residential Homes for Old People.

21.

asked the Minister for Health if he will introduce the necessary legislation or make regulations to enable health boards to pay realistic capitation fees to such private welfare homes as may be prepared to care for patients referred to them by the boards.

I assume that the question relates to homes providing residential accommodation for old people or other persons not requiring active institutional treatment. While this type of accommodation is provided very largely in homes conducted by the health boards, a relatively small number of eligible persons choose to reside in private homes, and in such cases health boards may contribute towards their maintenance. The current rate of contribution is, in general, £7 a week.

Having regard to the costs of maintaining the health board institutions this rate of contribution is not unreasonable, but will be examined in the normal course of review of health costs. Amendment of legislation or regulations will not be necessary.

If the Deputy has any particular home or homes in mind which, in his view, present special features and will get in touch with me I shall be glad to look into the matter further.

Top
Share