Alex White (Dublin South, Labour) | Oireachtas source

The asset contribution is to be increased from 5% to 7.5% for new entrants to the scheme following the enactment of the Bill. Anyone who is already in receipt of financial support under the scheme will not be affected. The asset contribution will be capped at 22.5% - or three years in total - in the case of the principal private residence. In the case of a couple, the cap on that residence will be 11.25% where one member of the couple enters long-term nursing home care. The weekly average contribution under the nursing home support scheme is currently in the region of €280. It should be noted that the scheme contains several safeguards which ensure that both the person in the nursing home and his or her spouse or partner, if applicable, are adequately provided for. These safeguards are unaffected by the provisions of the Bill.

The points I have made deal with the issue raised by the Senator who cannot be criticised for regretting the fact that this increase is being introduced. If we were not obliged to make this change, I am sure everyone would be happy. However, it is not possible to continue to operate the scheme without amending it.