Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 31 Oct 1991

Vol. 411 No. 8

Written Answers. - Assistance for the Elderly.

Michael Finucane

Question:

83 Mr. Finucane asked the Minister for Social Welfare whether there is any financial assistance available for a person (details supplied) in County Limerick who is looking for an electricity installation as the quotation is approximately £1,500; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Michael Finucane

Question:

86 Mr. Finucane asked the Minister for Social Welfare whether any financial assistance is available for a person (details supplied) in County Limerick, who is in receipt of an old age pension, for the installation of electricity as the quotation is approximately £1,500; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Social Welfare (Dr. Woods)

It is proposed to take Questions Nos. 83 and 86 together.

Under the provisions of the special housing aid for the elderly programme which is administered by health boards on behalf of the Department of the Environment, assistance can be provided to people over 65 years of age towards the cost of essential house repairs and improvements, including electricity installation. I understand from the MidWestern Health Board that the person referred to by the Deputy has not applied for assistance under this scheme.

Assistance with essential house improvements can also, in exceptional circumstances, be provided under the supplementary welfare allowance scheme. However, the scheme does not cover major house improvements and substantial payments are not normally made for such as those outlined.

It is suggested that the person concerned should apply in the first instance for assistance under the special housing aid for the elderly programme.