Gay Mitchell
Question:272 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage Gaeltacht and the Islands the schemes or benefits which are available to those over 60; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13549/00]
Written Answers. - Schemes for the Elderly.
All of the Gaeltacht-Irish language schemes administered by my Department are available to everyone including those aged 60 and over. A full list of schemes is available from the relevant divisions of my Department. These include housing, Gaeltacht, schemes; the Irish language learners scheme; scheme of Irish language courses in the Gaeltacht as well as social and cultural and infrastructural improvement schemes.
My Department offers reduced admission charges to people aged 60 and over at all of our fee charging heritage sites, and in addition the heritage card is available to people aged 60 and over at a discounted price of £10, usual price £15. Furthermore the education and visitor service proactively co-operates with Age Action Ireland and participated in the recent Bealtaine festival, offering reduced or free admission to certain sites. During national heritage week there are a number of special events planned for the over-sixties.