Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 July 2022
694. Deputy Seán Canney asked the Minister for Health if a review of the nursing home support scheme financial assessment will be conducted; the timeframe that has to elapse before the review can take place; if the value of a second house is capped for three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35559/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Nursing Homes Support Scheme (NHSS), commonly referred to as 'Fair Deal', is a system of financial support for people who require long-term residential care. The primary legislation underpinning the NHSS is the Nursing Home Support Scheme Act 2009. Participants in the NHSS contribute to the cost of their care according to their means while the State pays the balance of the cost. The process and procedure for determining financial assessment of means is prescribed in the existing legislation.
The capital value of an individual’s principal private residence is only included in the financial assessment for the first three years of their time in care. This is known as the three-year cap, which is intended to protect the value of a principal private residence. However, this three-year cap is not applied to other assets, unless they are farm or business assets to which a family successor has been appointed.
Remaining non-cash assets, including a second house, land or additional properties, are assessed at 7.5% of their value per annum (3.75% if the person applying is part of a couple). The first €36,000 (€72,000 if part of a couple) of assets is excluded from the financial assessment.
If non-cash assets include land and property, the7.5% contribution based on this can be deferred by applying for an optional nursing home loan (Ancillary State Support).
Another financial review can be requested 12 months after the first assessment or the most recent review.
