Máire Hoctor (Tipperary North, Fianna Fail)

I remind the Deputy that the reason for producing the fair deal is to render private long-term care anxiety and stress free for patients, the most important persons concerned, and their families. The increase in the subvention to a maximum of €300 is a clear recognition by the Government of the difficulties endured by families who have relatives in private nursing homes. When a member of the Fine Gael Party last held the position of Minister for Health, legislation ensured that the families of patients in private nursing homes were assessed using a means test .

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