John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)

I thank the Senators for their amendments. As I indicated yesterday, it was never the intention of the legislation, nor would it have been the ultimate effect, that it would affect elderly and incapacitated people who are long-term residents of nursing homes. However, for the avoidance of doubt, I undertook to make the legislation clear in this regard and to ensure the Bill does not apply the €200 charge to these people. I sought the advice of the Office of the Attorney General on the issue and, on foot of that advice, I will take whatever measures are required to ensure the charge will not apply to residents of nursing homes in respect of their vacated main or sole residence.

Senators will appreciate that it is important when drafting amendments to be as comprehensive and accurate as possible. I will need a little time to finalise this process. As the Senators said, it is not good to rush into these things. For that reason, I intend to table an amendment on Committee Stage in the Dáil and to report back to the Seanad. I thank Senators for their engagement with me on this matter. I hope they can agree to my proposal to copperfasten my intention of ensuring the charge will not apply in the circumstances I have described.