James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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Question 216: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the estimated cost of administering the nursing home repayment scheme (Donations) fund; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30740/07]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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In accordance with Section 11 of the Health (Repayment Scheme) Act 2006 a Repayment Scheme (Donations) Fund has been established for the purposes of utilising donated money to provide improvements in the public health services for dependent older persons and persons with disabilities.

The Health Service Executive (HSE) has indicated that it will administer the Fund and absorb any associated administration costs. All donated monies will be used entirely for the benefit of the patient which will include the provision of patient comforts.

The HSE has informed my Department that as of 16 November 2007 there has been over 260 expressions of interest from clients and donations have been received amounting to over €43,000. The HSE has also informed my Department that many claimants have indicated that they would make a donation directly to their local institution.

Bernard Allen (Cork North Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 217: To ask the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny will receive a decision on their claim for repayment in respect of charges for long-term care. [30744/07]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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The Health Service Executive has responsibility for administering the Repayment Scheme and the information sought by the Deputy relates to matters within the area of responsibility of the Executive.

My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued to the Deputy.