Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)
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Question 164: To ask the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs when he will reintroduce the grant scheme of community support for older people. [16016/09]

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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Question 166: To ask the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will lift the suspension of the scheme of community support for older people; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16093/09]

John Curran (Dublin Mid West, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 164 and 166 together.

The Scheme of Community Support for Older People was suspended on 7th April. This was done with a view to affording my Department the opportunity to review its operation over the next few months and re-launching it later in the year.

Earlier this week, I met with representatives of organisations involved with issues affecting older people and I have agreed with them a process that will set the broad parameters for the review and for the necessary consultation to be undertaken as part of it. I am hopeful that the review process can begin in May and be completed by mid September.

I would like to re-assure the Deputies that all applications received up to the suspension of the Scheme will be processed and approved, as appropriate, in line with the current eligibility criteria. In addition, it is important to note that the suspension of the Scheme in no way affects those who already have received a monitored alarm device.