Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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Question 29: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has completed his review of the disabled persons grant; and when it will be published. [36678/06]

Noel Ahern (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
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The review of the Disabled Persons Grant scheme, which incorporates the conditions governing the Essential Repairs Grant scheme and the Special Housing Aid for the Elderly scheme has been finalised within my Department.

I am very much aware of the importance of the efficient operation of the Disabled Persons and Essential Repairs Grant schemes in assisting with the provision of appropriate accommodation for disabled and elderly persons in the community. The focusing of the schemes on real needs, both financial and accommodation-related and its operation in an efficient manner is critical in ensuring that it achieves its aim.

My Department is currently preparing proposals for the future operation of the schemes, in conjunction with other public agencies concerned, and I expect to be in a position to announce these shortly.