Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I covered the issue of the framework for the plan. I have also dealt with the query about the local improvement scheme, LIS.

I am sure members have read about public banking. I have answered questions about the matter in the Dáil. The Programme for a Partnership Government envisaged that An Post, the Irish League of Credit Unions and other interested stakeholders would be asked to investigate and propose a new model of community banking, such as the Kiwi bank model in New Zealand, which could be delivered through the post office network. The Programme for Government also includes a commitment to investigate the German Sparkassenmodel for the development of local public banks that operate within well-defined regions.

My officials have actively worked with the Department of Finance to progress the commitment given in the Programme for a Partnership Government. Earlier this year a project team was assembled and officials from both Departments have actively worked together to finalise the analysis. In addition, a public consultation process, seeking views on the community banking model, was launched in early March and ran for four weeks. A total of 16 replies were received from a range of stakeholders. Both Departments have also met representatives from the SparkassenFoundation for International Co-operation in order to get a better understanding of how the model operates in Germany. Officials from both Departments are now finalising their analysis and a report will be submitted to both Ministers shortly.

The issue of safety in the home was raised. Recently, I announced that €2.3 million has been allocated to the senior alert scheme. I have made it easier this year for people aged 65 years and upwards to join the scheme. In the past people could only join if they lived alone but that does not apply anymore. I have conducted a national campaign on local media, national media and local radio stations to promote the scheme. Pobal will run a few shows around the country to encourage people to join the scheme. I call on people who know an elderly person or someone who would benefit from the scheme to help them to fill out their applications and submit them. I wish to confirm that all of the equipment is free. There is no charge for the pendant supplied whether it is worn on one's arm or neck. In addition, monitoring is free for the first year and there is a small for the second year onwards. I encourage people to avail of the scheme.

In terms of CCTV, the Minister for Justice and Equality recently announced a scheme and he has announced it again. CCTV is very important and the scheme has been simplified a bit. Recently, the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment and I launched a new helpline for all other mobile phones but not the iPhone. The scheme allows for people who have called for assistance to be located on a map. It is terrible that elderly people have been attacked in their homes. Such a situation is outrageous. We must do everything in our power to protect them and ensure they can live in the comfort of their own homes. That is why I encourage people to join the senior alert scheme. I know that the Garda is considering more ways and means to make the most of the scheme.