Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)
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Question 343: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the position in relation to patients who had already sold their homes to pay for nursing home care when the nursing home provision became effective; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7629/07]

Seán Power (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)
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I assume the Deputy is referring to A Fair Deal — the Nursing Home Care Support Scheme which is due to come into force on 1st January 2008.

My Department is in consultation with stakeholders in relation to the detail of the scheme, including the assessment of means and the treatment of assets. The issue the Deputy raises is one such situation which has been brought to my attention and is being considered at present.

In the meantime, the subventions payable to persons in private nursing homes have been substantially increased from 1st January 2007. The HSE estimates that approximately 1,800 additional persons will qualify for a subvention for the first time, as a result of changes introduced this year. It is open to persons in the circumstances outlined by the Deputy to apply for a subvention.