Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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Question 103: To ask the Minister for Social Protection if she will ensure that the views of parents and support groups are taken into account in the review of the domiciliary care allowance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28449/12]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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I recently announced that a review of the operation of the domiciliary care allowance scheme will be carried out over the coming months. This review will look at, amongst other things, the current application and assessment process and will identify any potential improvements to the delivery of service that can be implemented while retaining an efficient and effective operational model. The terms of reference for the review are being finalised at present and it is expected that it will commence shortly.

In terms of consultation, officials from the Department have met parents and representatives of advocacy groups on a number of occasions in recent months and it is envisaged that further consultations will be held in the context of the review.