Liam Twomey (Wexford, Fine Gael)

Between now and 1 January 2008, the Government is saying 5% of the value of the family home will be considered as income when an individual applies for nursing home subvention. As of 1 January 2008 the Government will take 5% of the value of the house from elderly people who need long-term nursing home care. To which of these measures do the amendments apply? The legislation lacks clarity but it will be passed in 25 minutes. It might be a saviour for the Minister of State but somebody will have to clean up this legislation if the lack of clarity remains.

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