Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 294: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if she will advise and assist persons (details supplied) in Dublin 9. [1049/08]

Máire Hoctor (Tipperary North, Fianna Fail)
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Under the proposed new nursing home support scheme, A Fair Deal, every individual will make a fair contribution to the cost of their care based on their income and, if applicable, their assets. The means assessment will work out how much each individual can contribute to the cost of their care. In the case of couples where one member requires care, the assessment is based on 50% of the couple's combined income and assets. The individual's spouse or partner will keep enough income to live comfortably. The means assessment will not take into account the means of other relatives such as their children.

Under the new scheme, individuals will contribute up to 80% of their assessable income per week, whether for public or private nursing home care. Depending on the amount of a person's assessable income, there may also be a contribution of up to 5% of a person's assets. The State will then meet the balance of cost, whether in a public or an approved private nursing home.

The portion of the contribution based on assets, such as a person's home, can be paid at the time of receiving care or it may be deferred, meaning that it will not have to be paid by the individual during their lifetime. In addition, the individual's spouse or certain dependants can avail of a further deferral of the contribution based on the principal residence for the duration of their lifetime.

The individuals who will be able to avail of the second deferred payment agreement include, among others, the spouse or co-habiting partner of the individual and a relative (as defined in the legislation) who is in receipt of a disability or similar allowance. The Bill providing for the Fair Deal scheme is at an advanced stage and being finalised by the Office of the Attorney General at present. The Minister for Health and Children, Mary Harney, T.D. proposes to publish the Bill as soon as possible following Government approval.