Michael Colreavy (Sligo-North Leitrim, Sinn Fein)
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To ask the Minister for Health the changes made to the fair deal scheme in Budget 2013; if he will advise if the review of the scheme is completed and if and when it will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57008/12]

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
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Two changes to the Nursing Homes Support Scheme were announced in Budget 2013. First, the asset contribution will be increased from 5% to 7.5% per annum. This will be capped at three years, or 22.5%, in the case of the principal private residence. This change will apply to new and existing nursing home residents. However, for existing residents, it should be noted that, in the case of the principal private residence, the higher percentage will only apply for the time remaining of the three-year cap. In the case of all other assets, it will apply for as long as the person remains in receipt of financial support under the scheme. Second, the entitlement for State support to be backdated to 27 October 2009 for people who were in nursing home care prior to the scheme commencing will be abolished. It is important to note that the legislation underpinning the scheme must be amended before these measures can be implemented. Therefore, an effective date will be announced in 2013. Finally, the review of the Nursing Homes Support Scheme will proceed as planned. A considerable amount of preparatory work for the review has already been completed. It will progress within the constraints of available staff and other priorities. It is envisaged that the review will be completed in 2013.