Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 17 Apr 2002

Vol. 552 No. 1

Written Answers. - Security of the Elderly.

Noel Ahern

Question:

489 Mr. N. Ahern asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs when the 2002 grant scheme for security of the elderly will be advertised; the budget figure for 2002 in this regard; if a list of voluntary bodies serving Dublin north west in full or part for 2001 can be given; if regional office staff are working to establish sponsoring groups in the Finglas area where there seems to be a gap; and if a device known as security and safety adapter has been recognised and approved for the scheme. [11827/02]

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

Since 1996 my Department has operated a 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. Funding is provided through grant aid to voluntary groups and organisations which have undertaken to identify elderly people in need of assistance. Since its commencement, a total of €32.5 million has been allocated under the scheme, which had assisted 80,482 individuals by the end of 2000 and €4.4 million has been provided in 2002. The 2002 scheme of grants will be advertised extensively in the national and provincial newspapers in the near future. While a closing date for receipt of applications is applied each year, departmental regional offices are flexible in accepting late applications, as their prime concern is the safety and security of vulnerable older people in the community.

Although details of grants paid by my Department since 1996 are available in the Oireachtas Library for the information of Members, the details are, in the main, listed by region rather than by county. Details of the grants made by my Department in 2001 are being finalised and will be made available in the coming weeks.

Voluntary or community based organisations working with or providing support for vulnerable older people may apply for grant aid. Individuals who wish to obtain information on how they, or older people known to them, can obtain assistance under the scheme should contact a local representative of the organisations involved in the scheme, such as Muintir na Tíre, neighbourhood watch, community alert or any other group involved in the scheme in their local area. Members of staff in the Dublin north regional office of my Department continually assist groups wishing to apply for funding on behalf of elderly persons. They are currently liaising with two groups in the Finglas area who have indicated that they are interested in applying for funding under the scheme in 2002.

Under the terms of the scheme, grants are provided for small scale physical security equipment such as strengthening of doors and windows, window locks, door chains and locks, security lighting and socially monitored alarm systems such as the panic button pendant which is worn around the neck or wrist and operated via a telephone. The Department does not endorse or recommend any specific product as it is a matter for voluntary organisations applying for funding under the scheme to decide which products to avail of from commercial companies.