Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 24 Nov 1998

Vol. 497 No. 2

Written Answers - Security of the Elderly.

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

As the Deputy is 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 which have undertaken to identify those elderly people in need of assistance under the scheme.

The maximum grant available under this scheme is 90 per cent of the cost and grants are provided only towards the once-off cost of the purchase and/or installation of the necessary equipment. The actual amount of the grant varies in the light of individual circumstances and needs and the overall demands which must be met. The closing date for applications under the 1998 scheme was 22 May and applications received before that date are currently being considered in the regional offices of my Department, which processes applications under the scheme.

However, my Department is unable to trace an application for the group mentioned in the Deputy's question. If the Deputy lets me have further information, I will be happy to have the matter investigated further.