Jack Wall (Kildare South, Labour)

I thank the Minister for this reply. Obviously, this is a very important question, given the age profile of the population. Looking at the figure of €53,000 for Age Action Ireland, I am reminded that last week was Age Action Week and in my area a very active group provided all types of entertainment for the senior citizens. Ultimately, the figure of €53,000 does not equate to €2,000 per county and it is very small relative to what is needed. However, I take the point made by the Minister of State, Deputy John Curran, on volunteerism. That law has ultimately emerged and the ESB has been a significant sponsor in this regard.

The Minister talks about safety etc., but we must ensure that senior citizens in rural areas are protected. On that aspect, what is being put in place to ensure this happens? I recently tabled a question to the Minister of Transport who told me there were no waivers for the rural transport initiative. That is very narrow-minded. It is not right as it seems to defeat the original purpose of the rural transport initiative, which was to allow people to travel to the various towns and interlink with social activities in these areas so that they were not prisoners in their homes. I ask the Minister to look at that.

It is possible to increase funding to make it attractive for the many volunteers that are willing to help. However, the initiative must be driven by the Department to ensure it happens.

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