Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I do not disagree with the Deputy. Much of the effort of the Oireachtas has gone towards recognising that. As the Minister of State, Deputy Finian McGrath, reminded me, last year we restored the respite care grant to its full value and we have sought to improve home help and home care packages. In each of the winter initiatives, a substantial improvement in spending on home care occurs. I agree with the Deputy that we must try to keep as many people as possible living independently in their homes. I noted from the reports during the week that perhaps we have not emphasised that sufficiently and that there has been too much emphasis on institutional care in cases in which people could have remained independent. The programme for Government reflects that concern and commits to expanding this area. We have made a very solid commitment in this regard, even though we are aware that new drugs coming on the market or new procedures will demand attention and resources. There is a recognition in the programme for Government of the importance of this area of care.

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