Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is not every case. The Senator mentioned the fair deal scheme, which was introduced by the former Minister for Health and Children, Mary Harney. At that time, the scheme was not fair because applicants who owned a property were penalised. It is fairer now and it is open to everybody, irrespective of whether people have an asset. A home or asset is factored into the cost and one pays a percentage. However, the scheme is also available to people who do not own a house. I suggest the Senator check the facts. The scheme is more equal now because people lost out in the past if they had savings or a home. We are aware that changes must be made to the scheme arising from changes in home ownership. Even if we fix housing, the trend away from home ownership will continue because not everyone wants to own a house. Home ownership is not everyone's choice.