Care of the Elderly

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 June 2022

Tuesday, 28 June 2022

Ceisteanna (825)

Marian Harkin

Ceist:

825. Deputy Marian Harkin asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 850 of 10 February and 142 of 7 July 2021, the progress that has been made following the review in 2017 of the working group to discuss and review the 1993 boarding out regulations; the plans that are in place to change and update these regulations; the plans to change and update the financial arrangements with the small number of providers involved, just 17 in total which have been in existence for the past 27 years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34076/22]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Health

The Boarding Out Scheme facilitates older people to remain in their communities where they may otherwise be accommodated in residential care. It can also help to reduce social isolation.  While the use of the Boarding Out Scheme by the HSE has traditionally been small I consider there is value in exploring it further.  

As I have previously advised the Deputy, I have requested that officials in the Department consider this model of care in the context of our overall commitment to enhancing opportunities for older people to stay in their homes and communities for longer.  Unfortunately, due to competing pressures, there has been a delay in commencing this piece of work, however preliminary scoping work of the Scheme is expected to commence shortly which will include consideration of the Regulations and the financial arrangements in place with the providers.