As stated in my reply to Question No. 359 of 17 November 1998 and in recent replies to other similar questions, 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 grants to voluntary groups and organisations, such as the group mentioned in the Deputy's question, who have undertaken to identify those elderly people in need of assistance under the scheme.
A sum of £2 million was allocated to the scheme in the 1998 Estimates. A review of applications under the 1998 scheme indicated that some 940 applications had been received.
Having reviewed the level of demand under the scheme this year I recently sought, and obtained, Government approval for the allocation of an additional £3 million to the scheme, bringing the total allocation in 1998 to £5 million. The allocation of these additional funds will allow my Department to assist a large number of people again this year and the regional offices of my Department are currently processing applications.
The maximum grant available under this scheme is 90 per cent of 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. It is important to realise that not all applications received under the 1996 and 1997 schemes were funded at a level of 90 per cent. No decision has been made by me to change the basis for making awards under the scheme in 1998. Therefore, I am satisfied that the current level of funding is sufficient to allow my Department to make a meaningful response to worthwhile applications and to assist a large number of people again this year.