I propose to take Questions Nos. 104 and 108 together.
Considerable progress has been made in recent years in improving the situation of informal family carers. My Department, in recognition of the valuable service rendered by them, has made available additional financial allocations to the health boards and the Eastern Regional Health Authority, for the purpose of supplying specific help to such carers, by way of provision of a respite grant and assistance in the home such as nurse, care attendants or home help. This funding also covers the cost of training programmes. My Department also provides separate financial assistance to the Carer's Association, Caring for Carers and the Alzheimer Society of Ireland, by way of core funding which, in 2003 amounted to €1,884,936 and in 2004 will amount to approximately €2,017,714. A proportion of this provides support to carers, including training programmes.