Paul Bradford (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for his comprehensive reply. He mentioned that the HSE makes every effort to match available funding to demand by releasing funding on a weekly basis. That is fair enough, but I am advised that up to seven weeks ago, on a Monday or a Tuesday, the funding released each week from the central office would cover a five-day period and, obviously, a set number of applicants, whereas now that funding covers applicants only for two and a half days. That is the reason the delays have more than doubled. I am advised that sanctions for funding have decreased by 60%. It is fair to say that money is being released weekly, but a significantly reduced number of applicants are sanctioned each week. I ask the Minister to bring this to attention of the Minister of State, Deputy Kathleen Lynch. I look forward to the review and I appreciate the funding crisis. I appeal to the Minister to try to make progress but also to ensure that the broader spectrum of care for the elderly, services and future methods of dealing with the elderly are considered also.