Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 7 April 2004
135 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the rate of nursing home subvention payable to a single person in the highest dependency category in a nursing home, who has an old age contributory pension at the maximum rate and approximately €25,000 in the bank as their only means. [10930/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Nursing Home (Subvention) Regulations 1993 are administered by the health boards and the Eastern Regional Health Authority. There are currently three rates of subvention payable, namely, €114.30, €152.40 and €190.50 for the three levels of dependency which are medium, high and maximum. Included in these payments is an increase of 25% which came into effect in April 2001.
Means are assessed for this scheme to ensure that the available funding is directed at those people who have the greatest need of financial assistance. Means for the purpose of the regulations relates to any income that person might have, and includes a costing of assets derived as a weekly figure. Given the amount of information given by the Deputy, it is not possible to give a definitive answer. If the Deputy has a specific case in mind, he should contact the local area health board in the first instance.
