Ciarán Lynch (Cork South Central, Labour)
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Question 57: To ask the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the progress made with regard to his discussions with a number of voluntary groups in relation to the suspension of the community support for older people scheme; when he expects the discussions to be concluded and a decision made on the restoration of the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23852/09]

John Curran (Dublin Mid West, Fianna Fail)
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I refer the Deputy to my response to Questions 68 and 69 on 29 April 2009. As indicated in that reply, the Scheme of Community Support for Older People was suspended on 7th April in order to afford my Department the opportunity to review its operation.

I met with representatives of organisations involved with issues affecting older people and I have agreed with them the process setting the broad parameters for the review and for the necessary consultations, which my officials are currently engaged in. I expect this process to be completed by mid September at which time I hope to launch a revised Scheme.

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.