Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 6 Oct 1998

Vol. 494 No. 4

Written Answers. - Housing Aid for the Elderly.

P. J. Sheehan

Question:

370 Mr. Sheehan asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs when payment of a grant will be made to Drimoleague, County Cork, Community Alert Association, towards the installation of a security system for the elderly in the area. [18676/98]

Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs (Mr. D. Ahern)

As you are aware my Department has, since 1996, operated the scheme of community support for older people, the purpose of which is to provide funding for initiatives to improve the security and social support of vulnerable older people. This funding is provided by way of grant to voluntary groups who have undertaken to identify those elderly people in need of assistance under the scheme.

The closing date for applications for the 1998 scheme was 22 May and applications received before that date are currently being considered in the regional offices of my Department, who process applications under the scheme. I can confirm that an application has been received from the group mentioned in the Deputy's question. My Department expects to be in a position soon to advise the group of the decision regarding their application under the scheme.