Gay Mitchell
Question:121 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs if he will have arrangements made as a matter of urgency to obtain an alarm system for a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8. [4423/98]
Written Answers - Security for the Elderly.
The scheme of community support for older people was established in 1996 to address the security needs of vulnerable older people in the community. Under the scheme grants are made available to voluntary organisations such as Muintir na Tíre, community alert and neighbourhood watch, who have undertaken to identify the older people in the community in need of the schemes services.
Under the scheme grants are available for: small-scale physical security equipment such as strengthening of doors and windows, window locks, door chains and locks and security lighting; and socially-monitored alarm systems. Funding is not available for conventional burglar alarms under this scheme.
People wishing to avail of grants under this scheme should contact their local voluntary or community organisations in their area which provide support for vulnerable older people. Applications should be made by the local voluntary or community organisation prior to the purchase or installation of the security equipment.
An allocation of £2 million has been made to the 1998 scheme which will be advertised shortly in both the national and local press. Applications made under the scheme will be processed as soon as possible after the closing date.