Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 27 Mar 2001

Vol. 533 No. 3

Written Answers. - Security of the Elderly.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

240 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs when he will respond to a recent application from Naas residents' forum in respect of funding for security accessories for the elderly; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8629/01]

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

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 its commencement, a total of £22 million has been allocated to the scheme, which to the end of 2000 has assisted some 80,482 individuals. The scheme of community support for older people was advertised in both the national and provincial press on 20 March, at which time any voluntary or community-based organisation working with or providing support for vulnerable older people may submit applications for funding on their behalf.

In administering this and other schemes, my Department must ensure that all applications meet the criteria for funding and that all necessary information and documentation is supplied and found to be satisfactory. With reference to the group indicated in the Deputy's question the information and documentation supplied was not sufficient and funding could not be allocated from last year's allocation. However, additional information which was recently supplied by this group to my Department is currently under consideration and my Department will contact the group regarding the matter.