Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

In 2013, the figure was €561,000, a reduction of 66%. That is not on. These grants are critical, as they allow the elderly and people with disabilities to continue living in their family homes for longer than would ordinarily be the case. Saving people from entering long-term nursing home or institutional care saves the State money in the long run. Not only has the Minister of State slashed the budget allocation to these grants, she has also amended the eligibility criteria. No longer can anyone over 60 years of age qualify for a grant to repair a door or window or to do a bit of rewiring - people must be at least 66 years of age.

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