Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is appalling that anybody who is dealing a family facing such pressures would seek to treat domiciliary care allowance and its payment in the same way as they would other income streams into the home. I am aware that access to that payment is based on severe need. I also know, from ample experience, that the payment is used to help families get by in supporting loved ones that have great need.

On the broad point put to me by Deputy Burton, I have outlined what I and my Department have done in respect of this matter in the immediate past on this current classification. I am absolutely aware of the level of concern these particular loan owners have about the potential sale.

See this speech in context