Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 12 October 2023
190. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for Health the measures he will take following Budget 2024 to increase the provision of HSE homecare in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44593/23]
View answerThe type and quantum of services to be provided next year by the HSE will be considered as part of the National Service Planning process.
The delivery of home support hours is increasing year on year. In 2024 we expect to deliver 22 million hours of home support. This is more than has ever been delivered before, with an additional €2.8 million being allocated to meet inflationary pressures.
In the Programme for Government we committed to establish ‘a commission to examine care and supports for older people’. On 3 October the Government approved the proposal put forward by the Minister for Health and I for the establishment of a Commission on Care for Older Persons.
The Commission will examine the provision of health and social care services and supports for older persons and make recommendations to the government for their strategic development. In addition, a cross-departmental group will be established under the auspices of the Commission to consider and optimise the supports for positive ageing across the life course. I am pleased to say that over €1.2 million has been allocated in Budget 2024 to support the work of this important initiative, which will get underway early next year.
In addition, the minimum proportion of new home support hours allocated to people with dementia will increase from 15% in 2023 to 18% in 2024.
With regards to the specific issue concerning homecare in County Clare , this is an operational matter for the Health Service Executive and I have asked them to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
