Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 30 Nov 2000

Vol. 527 No. 2

Written Answers. - Home Help Service.

Willie Penrose

Question:

105 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Health and Children if he has instructed the health boards not to hire persons who are related to qualifying applicants for the home help assistance; and if not, the reason it is enforced by some health boards; his views on whether this is presenting an obstacle in some rural areas to providing a service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28061/00]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Dr. Moffatt)

Traditionally, it has not been the practice of the health boards to engage relatives of older persons to provide a home help service to older people to whom they are related. However, in exceptional circumstances, there have, I understand, been some instances where a distant relative, for example, a cousin, has been employed as a home help.