Mark Wall (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for his reply, the final few sentences of which addressed precisely the problems people have raised with me. It goes without saying that other Senators are dealing with similar matters. Building costs have risen exponentially over the past 24 months and the grant has not kept pace. I have had people cry on the other end of the telephone line as they told me that a loved one was in hospital and could not come home to them. Increasing the grant by a relatively small amount could make the difference and allow a loved one to be brought home. Unfortunately, local authorities are restricted to providing the prescribed amounts. An urgent review is needed because people cannot continue to have loved ones in hospital settings.

I raised previously the issue of permanent contracts. More and more contracts in local authorities are temporary. This does not allow them to recruit the staff they need to carry out works and inspections. That is having a knock-on effect on the grants.

I ask the Minister of State to examine those two issues and convey my views to the Minister. A review is urgently needed.