Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The announcement yesterday of 550 extra home care packages is proof of the determination on the part of the Minister of State, Deputy Jim Daly, and the Minister to ensure this issue is adequately dealt with. I am assured that these initiatives will provide older people with the type of care they need, which is the type of care requested by Deputy Grealish. I am very keen to ensure it is delivered in the right place and within an appropriate period of time. Older people wish to be supported in their homes and in their communities. The additional investment in social and community care measures will support this objective in the winter ahead. The net budget for the nursing homes support is in excess of €960 million. The scheme supports approximately 23,300 people in respect of long-term residential care. The waiting time for funding approval is three to four weeks, but I assure Deputy Grealish that the Minister of State with responsibility for older people, Deputy Jim Daly, is focusing this winter on the issue of delayed discharges and social care measures, including the investment in home support, which will assist people in returning home to their communities as quickly as possible.

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