Denis Naughten (Longford-Roscommon, Fine Gael)
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Question 166: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the eligibility criteria for the domiciliary care allowance; if persons with diabetes are eligible; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23836/05]

Tim O'Malley (Limerick East, Progressive Democrats)
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The domiciliary care allowance or DCA was introduced in 1973 by way of circular 24/73 and is payable under section 61 of the Health Act 1970. The DCA is a monthly allowance administered by Health Service Executive areas and may be paid in respect of eligible children from birth to the age of 16 years who have a severe disability requiring continual or continuous care and attention which is substantially in excess of that normally required by a child of the same age. The condition must be likely to last for at least one year.

Eligibility is determined primarily by reference to the degree of additional care and attention required by the child rather than to the type of disability involved, subject to a means test. While no condition is debarred, conditions such as asthma, diabetes or epilepsy are not normally considered unless there is a very high degree of additional care and attention required. It is a matter for the senior area medical officer or other designated medical officer in the relevant community care area to decide whether a child qualifies for DCA on medical grounds.

Since the allowance is intended as a recognition of the additional burden involved in caring for children with a severe disability in the child's home, it does not apply to children who are maintained full-time in residential homes, schools or other institutions. Eligible children in part-time residential care who go home at weekends or holidays may receive a pro rata payment, that is, a nightly rate based on the number of nights spent at home. The nightly rate is equal to the monthly rate multiplied by 12 and divided by 365.

However, the allowance is paid in full in cases where eligible children who live full-time at home are absent for a period or periods of not more than eight weeks in any 12 month period, that is, hospital admissions or respite.