I propose to take Questions Nos. 14 and 25 together.
I am aware of the views recently expressed by the Ombudsman in relation to the regulations made under the Health (Nursing Homes) Act, 1990, concerning the assessment of children's circumstances.
One of the principal objectives of this legislation is to ensure that those most in need of nursing home care and without the resources to fund such care should receive assistance from the State. It has long been accepted that adult sons and daughters of persons in nursing homes would contribute towards the costs of their parents' nursing home fees if they could afford to do so. The nursing homes regulations were drafted with this in mind. I might add that the State recognises the contribution made by sons and daughters toward their parents' maintenance costs by allowing income tax relief on such contributions. However, given the views expressed by the Ombudsman, I am currently having the matter reviewed in my Department to determine whether any changes need to be made in the regulations.
