Emer Higgins (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister. That is welcome news. I welcome the extension of the treatment benefit scheme to cover grants towards things like wigs and hairpieces. It is good news for people who suffer from alopecia or who have experienced hair loss due to cancer treatment. Some people might think it is a trivial issue, but many men and women take pride in and confidence from their hair. As is said in adverts, people's hair is often their crown. When that is taken away, whether it involves hair falling out or having to be shaved, that can add further to the trauma people are experiencing through illness.

Providing a grant that would cover half or a third of the cost of wigs will be hugely beneficial, given that many wigs cost between €1,000 and €1,500. As the Minister said, it will improve people's quality of life. I am particularly pleased to hear the Minister say it will be an annual grant that can be drawn down once a year. Obviously, wigs have to be replaced quite regularly. When the Minister said that the payment will be available from May, does that mean May of next year onwards? Will it apply to any wigs purchased next year?

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