Michael Noonan
Question:116 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans, if any, he has to increase nursing home subventions in 1998 or 1999; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8332/98]
Vol. 489 No. 4
116 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans, if any, he has to increase nursing home subventions in 1998 or 1999; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8332/98]
The subvention scheme established under the Health (Nursing Homes) Act, 1990, provides assistance to those who have difficulty in meeting the full cost of nursing home fees. The scheme is not intended to meet in full the cost of private nursing home care. The question of an increase in the level of subvention will be considered in the context of resources available to the health services.