Ms Fiona Larthwell:

This happens in the disability sector more so than in the older persons sector. We do not see personal assistants in the older persons sector.

We have been discussing it with the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth extensively. As we understand it, and bear in mind this is our interpretation because it is not something we deliver, personal assistance is much more about helping people access the community. It is much more about helping people outside of their homes. It is helping people go out and about in the community, whereas home support is what is happening in their homes. That is the distinction as we understand it. It is a matter for the Department of Children, Equality-----