On-going funding for any service is a matter for the HSE. In this regard, the HSE has recently met with Dignity 4 Patients and signed a Grant Aid Agreement with them for €22,500 for one year's office supplies and voluntary support. The HSE has also advised Dignity 4 Patients that there is no funding available towards staffing costs and suggested that they consider establishing synergies with other similar agencies, in order to continue to provide support to their client group. The Department is also in receipt of an application for Lottery funding from Dignity 4 Patients and this is currently being considered. The purpose of National Lottery Funding is to provide funding for applications in respect of once off initiatives and it is not intended for the provision of ongoing costs to any organisation.