Marian Harkin (Sligo-Leitrim, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I listened to the Taoiseach's response regarding the TAPS scheme for nursing homes. This money is to ensure continued rigorous infection control measures are in place, quite rightly, demanded by HIQA. Some €134 million was provided, but every cost under TAPS was itemised and approved by the HSE, so it is not extra or free money. That money is still needed to protect residents and workers in nursing homes.

The pandemic is far from over and saying that there are funds available if something happens is no good. We need to be proactive, not reactive. If Covid has taught us anything, it has taught us that. I will give the Taoiseach time to respond. Why is he withdrawing this funding from the nursing home sector where it is still needed?

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