Máire Hoctor (Tipperary North, Fianna Fail)

Since the announcement of the new nursing home support scheme, A Fair Deal, the Department has met with the National Federation of Pensioners Associations, the Irish Farmers Association, the Irish Senior Citizens Parliament and the social partners. The Department also attended the AGM of the Irish Senior Citizens Parliament at its request and participated in a workshop on the new scheme.

In addition, the Department has dealt with queries and representations from interest groups, public representatives and members of the public. All of the issues raised during formal consultation and otherwise were given careful consideration in drafting the Bill. The Bill providing for the scheme is at an advanced stage and is currently being finalised by the Office of the Attorney General. The Minister hopes to publish the Bill as soon as possible following Government approval.

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