Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 February 2004
441 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the details of the safe home organisation as referred to in Parliamentary Question No. 493 of 3 February 2004; the way in which they can be contacted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3831/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Safe Home Programme Limited obtained approved status under the Housing Acts from my Department in January 2002. Safe Home assesses applications from elderly emigrants for accommodation under the amended terms of my Department's capital assistance scheme and compiles a list of eligible applicants. It liaises with relevant voluntary bodies throughout the country and with local authorities regarding accommodation for eligible elderly emigrants on its waiting list and carries out a co-ordinating role generally in relation to the scheme.
I understand that Safe Home offers a service which includes the provision of information and practical advice to emigrants considering returning to this country including those emigrants arranging their own accommodation on return. This service includes the provision of information in relation to entitlements in this country such as social welfare benefits, health services, housing, etc. I understand that Safe Home also provides information on benefits in the country of residence which a returning emigrant may have transferred with him or her on returning to this country.
Safe Home can be contacted in writing by addressing correspondence to The Safe Home Programme Limited, St. Brendan's Village, Mulranny, County Mayo. It can be contacted by telephone from abroad at 00353 98 36036 or by fax at 00353 98 36037. Safe Home's e-mail address is safehomeireland@eircom.net and its website address is www.safehomeireland.com.
