Richard Bruton
Ceist:22 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Health the progress which has been made in his review of subventions for private nursing homes; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Review of Subventions.
The Health (Nursing Homes) Bill, 1989, which is at Committee Stage in the Dáil, provides for the introduction of a new system of subventions by health boards towards the cost of nursing home care. Health boards will be able to pay a subvention towards the cost of care in any nursing home registered by a health board. The legislation provides for the payment of subventions on the basis of an assessment by the health board of the person's need for nursing home care and of his or her ability to pay part or all of the costs involved. I hope that this system will be in place by the end of the year.