Catherine Byrne (Dublin South Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 168: To ask the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the position regarding the community supports for older persons scheme; the funding that was provided under this scheme in 2008 and 2009; the amount earmarked for 2010; the number of groups in receipt of funding for 2010; if he is committed to maintaining this scheme which is of great benefit to the elderly in our communities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14233/10]

Pat Carey (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The Scheme of Community Support for Older People (CSOP) is open and continues to accept applications from local community and voluntary groups. To date, 116 groups have received funding in 2010. Information on grants paid to groups since 2004 is updated monthly on my Department's website at www.pobail.ie.

The Deputy will be aware that the CSOP was re-introduced in October 2009 following completion of a review of its operation by my Department. Arrangements for the introduction of a revised scheme - which will address a range of issues raised in the review - are at an advanced stage and I hope to launch it before the end of April. It should be noted, however, that the existing CSOP will remain open until such time as the new arrangements are put in place. Funding of over €4.3 million was provided under the CSOP in 2008 and, notwithstanding the suspension of the scheme for a period last year, €2.1 million was spent on it in 2009. Funding of €3.1 million has been made available in the 2010 Revised Estimates. I am fully committed to maintaining this scheme within the wider context of Government policy aimed at supporting older people to live in dignity and independence in their own homes and communities for as long as possible.