Seán Power (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)

The appeal system is quite similar to the system operating in the Department of Social and Family Affairs. In this case we appreciate that in many cases, the people on behalf of whom subventions are being made might not necessarily be in a position to make the application themselves. For that reason we have the facility where family members or friends can make an application on their behalf.

I will make a couple of points about the scheme. The first relates to people dealing with the appeal having to comply with guidelines issued by the HSE in respect of procedures to be followed relating to the consideration of any appeal. I have stated that the HSE has advised that the new appeals process and associated guidelines will be in place eight weeks from now, not six weeks. An appeals officer would have to consider any written or oral objections made by the appellant in support of the appeal.

We are not trying to encourage people down the legal route, but we must make that available to them or their families in the event they are not happy with the existing appeals system.

I have been honoured to be elected to occupy a seat in this House since 1989. I have sat on both sides of the House, and I have felt privileged to have the opportunity. If I am fortunate enough to be re-elected after the next election, I will not be changing my jersey, whatever about my seat.

Members have mentioned the selling of homes. By bringing in this legislation we are not forcing anybody to sell their home. There was a comment earlier about Age Action Ireland. That group has acknowledged on its website that my colleague the Minister, Deputy Harney, has stated that individuals would not have to sell their homes to fund nursing home care. That still remains the case.

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