Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 951: To ask the Minister for Health the steps which he is taking to re-instate the fair deal nursing home scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23706/11]

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The processing of approvals for financial support under the Nursing Homes Support Scheme was suspended for a month from May to June while an examination of funding was being carried out. However, the HSE has been issuing funding approvals again since 13 June. Almost 1,700 people have been allocated funding since that date. The HSE is continuing to process applications within the funding limits available to the scheme and in accordance with the legislation.

The HSE intends to deal with those currently awaiting approval within the next 6 weeks.

By the end of the year, the HSE intends that any delays in awarding funding will be eliminated. The situation will be closely monitored to ensure that funding is allocated as soon as it becomes available. It is anticipated that any delays will be resolved in the final quarter of 2011.