Ivor Callely (Fianna Fail)

The Minister of State is probably aware that the families of people in long-stay care can come under immense pressure with regard to the level of subvention being paid. Section 30(7) states that a person other than the Executive may not request a review of a determination relating to a financial assessment unless 12 months have elapsed since the date of the initial financial assessment. People's circumstances can change rapidly. For example, a person who is currently dependent on a rental income might find his or her income changing by the quarter. Indeed, in certain instances there could be default in payment of the rent. How quickly can an issue of that nature be addressed in the context of the assessment?

I am aware interested bodies have made submissions. I am happy to work with bodies such as Nursing Homes Ireland and other groups. Has the Minister consulted them or is there a user group to feed information to the Minister on the user aspects of the legislation? The user groups could be a soundboard on the legislation.