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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 7 Jun 2000

Vol. 520 No. 4

Written Answers. - Security of the Elderly.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

173 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs when a person (details supplied) in County Clare will receive a personal alarm; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16004/00]

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 aid to voluntary groups and organisations who have undertaken to identify those elderly people in need of assistance under the scheme.

Since I came to office in mid-1997, 53,000 individuals have received assistance under the scheme. I am committed to ensuring that this scheme continues to address the security needs of the most vulnerable older people in our society and, accordingly, a sum of £5 million has been provided for the scheme in my Department's Estimates for 2000.
While the closing date for receipt of applications was 26 May 2000, the regional offices of my Department are flexible in accepting late applications, their prime concern being the safety and security of vulnerable older people in the community.
The mid-west regional office of my Department has advised that an application has not been received on behalf of the individual referred to in the Deputy's question but that office can facilitate the individual by accepting an application at this stage should the individual wish to make one.
As the Deputy is aware, individuals who wish to obtain assistance under the scheme, must do so by way of a voluntary organisation, such as community alert groups, neighbourhood watch groups, Muintir na Tíre, etc. I have arranged to supply details to the Deputy in relation to a local group who may be able to assist the individual in making an application.
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