Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)

We are developing the home care sector. It is not something that has always been done, however. It used to be all or nothing — one went into a public long-term care facility, where 90% of the cost of one's care was subsidised, or one went into a private nursing home, perhaps with the help of a subvention, and had to pay at least 60% of the cost of one's care. It was totally inequitable. There was virtually nothing else at home. The home help service has been developed rapidly since it was initiated some years ago. I am in favour of whatever works for older people, regardless of who provides the care. I meet many families and hear their stories. I saw a letter yesterday or the day before in which a family in Dublin was full of praise for a private company that is supplying the care. There has to be some flexibility.

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