Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour) | Oireachtas source

In regard to the review of the fair deal scheme, I agree with Deputy Kelleher. The two most successful programmes for delivery of health in this country were in primary care and mental heath, because everyone bought into what was planned for the future. That is the way we should proceed. When the review is published I hope everyone with an interest in the issue will get together to discuss it. The review might tell us that people in the community should be able access the fair deal scheme or to get home help and enhanced home care packages to allow them to stay in their own communities. The scheme is based on the individuals concerned contributing 80% of their income, but that clearly would not work in a community setting because the individuals would still have to buy their own food and pay their bills. These details need to be hammered out, but we have to consider the issue carefully. The scheme is fair in that it allows people to access care on an equal basis. However, times and needs have changed. We need to consider the issues arising in a broad context, as well as ensuring those who cannot pay are protected.

I hope when the review is published that we will be able to get together, sit down and take a serious look at how to deliver this care into the future.