Vol. 502 No. 2
78 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the maximum home help hours which can be provided to people in north Kildare is two hours per day; if his attention has been further drawn to the fact that the budget for home help services within the north Kildare area is now used up; the plans, if any, he has to rectify the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7505/99]
The provision of the home help service in the Kildare area is a matter in the first instance for the Eastern Health Board.
I understand from the board that the home help services in its area, including Kildare, are provided by 35 voluntary organisations.
The board has informed me that in relation to Kildare, there is not a limit of two hours per day in operation. Service is provided on the basis of need; applicants are assessed relative to their health and social needs; those with higher needs are prioritised. The health board has assured me that there are no budgetary difficulties at present and, with careful case management in operation, none are envisaged.
