Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy raised a number of points. The last point she raised was one of policy in relation to whether there should be a statutory entitlement. The Minister for Health informs me that is in fact being considered by the Department. The second point to make is that the delayed discharges are down this week by 34. Obviously, there is more work to be done because some patients' discharges are being delayed because they do not have home care packages. Each and every one of us here is familiar with that situation. The increased investment is reaching more people but there is still that huge demand. I agree with the Deputy that the focus needs to be evermore on primary care. As the Deputy knows, that is the direction our health service is taking. There is huge investment in primary care. Part of that is having the kind of home care package that enables people to stay in their homes. However, it is very costly. We all know, whether it is from our own parents or what we see with family and friends, just how intensive the demand is when it comes to keeping people in their homes.

Occupational therapy, physiotherapy and home care packages are needed-----

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