Sheila Terry (Fine Gael)

This discussion has been worthwhile because it is one of the most important issues with which we are dealing. We must ensure that as many people as possible remain at home. Unfortunately, one of the problems in our hospitals is that too many people are in hospital because they do not have someone to care for them. Given the improvements in the budget, many people will make themselves available to care for the elderly. The fact that it does not have to be a family member, and that someone who lives close by can care for a person, will make it more attractive to become involved in caring for people. It is a worthwhile allowance. We should continue to make improvements in this area.

Other Senators and I said yesterday that the respite grant should be doubled to make it possible for people to go into a nursing home for two weeks rather than one week if they so wish. Many carers who carry the heavy burden of caring for people with disabilities or elderly people who need full-time care would need a two-week break. The respite grant would be one way of helping to deliver this. While I accept it cannot be delivered this year, perhaps next year the Minister will consider providing the equivalent of two weeks in a nursing home, taking into account the varying costs throughout the country. This would be of great benefit to carers.