Vol. 536 No. 1
138 Mr. N. Ahern asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs if he will clarify the situation in relation to the scheme of improvements for the elderly; if new restrictions or controls are being imposed; and if some of the traditional community groups which operated this scheme are being sidelined or made subordinate to selected umbrella groups. [13445/01]
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.
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. I am anxious to ensure that this scheme continues to address the security needs of the most vulnerable older people in our society. 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.
Any voluntary or community-based organisation working with or providing support for vulnerable older people can apply. My Department does not direct individuals to make their applications through any particular voluntary or community group and indeed supported 571 organisations under the scheme last year. The scheme has operated in this manner since it was first introduced in 1996. Details of all organisations receiving funding under the scheme have been made available to the Houses of the Oireachtas Library each year since 1996 for the information of members. A review of the scheme was completed in April 1999 and there are no plans to amend the scheme.
