Vol. 563 No. 5
158 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his plans to allocate extra resources in 2003 to the scheme of community support for older people; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8392/03]
The scheme of community support for older people provides funding for initiatives to improve the security and social support of vulnerable older people. In 2002, €2.671 million was provided by way of grant aid to voluntary groups and organisations who identified elderly people in need of assistance under the scheme. Funding in excess of that amount has been provided for in 2003, with €3.444 million available for grant aid under the scheme this year. Having regard to trends in 2002, I am confident that the amount provided is sufficient to respond to the likely level of demand in 2003.
Question No. 159 answered with Question No. 133.
Question No. 160 answered with Question No. 109.
