Written Answers Nos. 87-91
89. Deputy Shane Ross asked the Minister for Health the position regarding persons (details supplied) who are not receiving an adequate financial contribution to nursing care for a parent as well as adequate support for a dependent child; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39502/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Nursing Homes Support Scheme (Allowable Deductions) Regulations 2014 came into effect on the 1st September 2014. These Regulations have expanded the definition of "Allowable Deductions" in the Nursing Homes Support Scheme Act 2009 to allow the HSE to make allowance for dependent children. The Regulations now enable the HSE to allow a standard amount equivalent to the allowance already used for medical card income assessments. This is considered the most equitable way to address this issue.
90. Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Health if he will review the feasibility of restoring scale and polish dental treatment (details supplied) which has been discontinued; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39504/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraFunding for the Dental Treatment Services Scheme (DTSS), which was capped at the 2008 level of €63 million, has increased to €75 million this year to take account of the increase in the uptake of services. The HSE prioritises for treatment patients with special needs, high risk patients and those who have greater clinical needs and will continue to monitor the operation of the DTSS to ensure the most beneficial, effective and efficient use of available resources. The Department of Health is currently developing a new national oral health policy. The emphasis on prevention rather than intervention is a cornerstone of this policy development. The project is prioritising adults in the first instance. Consequently it will be focusing on preventive issues for this cohort.
91. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will affirm that the long-standing policy of neutrality remains as a central element of Irish foreign policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39359/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe longstanding policy of neutrality remains a crucial element in Ireland’s foreign policy.
Guided by the principles that inform our broader foreign policy, we continue to take an active approach towards crisis management. We remain fully committed to meeting our obligations in accordance with the UN Charter, which requires us to make resources available to the UN Security Council for the purpose of maintaining international peace and security. In this regard, the Defence Forces continue to participate in UN-authorised peacekeeping operations, led by the UN, the EU and NATO. Recognising the importance of supporting and strengthening policing and the rule of law in post-conflict situations, Ireland also contributes civilian experts and members of An Garda Síochána to civilian crisis management missions operated by the EU and the UN.
