Jim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 130: To ask the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the reason for the reduction in funding for panic buttons (details supplied) under the scheme of community support for older people; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2326/05]

Noel Ahern (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
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Following a review of the scheme of community support for older people, certain key changes were introduced in 2004. These changes have no implications for the overall funding available for the scheme.

The 90% limit on funding was abolished and replaced with individual maximum grants in respect of the various scheme elements. The maximum grant provided for socially-monitored alarm systems or "panic buttons" was set at €300. The grant level was fixed with reference to the level of grants sought and paid in the previous year by my Department. The aim of this measure is to encourage competition between suppliers in the interest of ensuring value for money, both for taxpayers and individual applicants.

The selection of a supplier of equipment under the scheme is a matter for the relevant voluntary or community group. However, it is important that the group select a supplier which represents the best value for money, consistent with the scheme guidelines, and which therefore keeps to a minimum the amount payable by individual applicants.

My officials have advised me that a number of suppliers quoted under €300 for the installation of socially monitored alarms. Consequently, these were 100% grant-aided. This leaves the individual applicant with nothing to pay for his or her socially-monitored alarm.