Medical Aids and Appliances

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 November 2022

Tuesday, 8 November 2022

Questions (418, 422)

Eoin Ó Broin

Question:

418. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the reason that ceiling track hoists are not provided for under the Housing (Adaptation Grants for Older People and People with a Disability) Regulations 2007; if he will provide an update on his engagement with the Department of Health as to a suitable resolution regarding the funding of hoists; and when ceiling track hoists will be made available to persons who require them but cannot currently access them. [55312/22]

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

422. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will provide an update on the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55501/22]

Written answers

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage

I propose to take Questions Nos. 418 and 422 together.

The Housing Adaptation Grant for Older People and People with a Disability scheme is underpinned by secondary legislation. The provisions of Article 7 of the Housing (Adaptation Grants for Older People and People with a Disability) Regulations 2007 set out the types of mobility aids that the grant can be used for, including accessible showers, access ramps, grab rails, stair lifts and other minor works to facilitate the mobility needs of a member of a household. The funding of fixed track hoists is not provided for under the scheme as they are prescribed medical device appliances which require the assistance of trained carers for their safe operation.

My Department is continuing to engage proactively with the Department of Health and the HSE on this issue. The objective of reaching a suitable resolution on the funding of fixed track hoists remains a priority.