Paul Connaughton Snr (Galway East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 331: To ask the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the reason the community support to older people has been discontinued; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16157/09]

John Curran (Dublin Mid West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

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.

Last 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.