Thomas Pringle (Donegal South West, Independent)
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409. To ask the Minister for Health in view of the increasing isolation felt by elderly residents in remote locations in County Donegal, his plans to promote social inclusion for persons living in remote areas and provide funding for organisations that work to combat the social isolation of elderly residents; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9045/15]

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
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The 2011-2016 Programme for Government committed to completing and implementing the National Positive Ageing Strategy (NPAS) so that older people are recognised, supported and enabled to live independent full lives. In our statement of Health priorities for 2015, the Minister for Health and I have reiterated our commitment to implementing the Strategy.

The Strategy recognises that older people may be financially vulnerable in their later years, or may be prone to social isolation and loneliness brought about by family circumstances or as a consequence of where they live.

Implementation of the Strategy involves a wide range of Departments and agencies, all of which must operate within the resources available to them.

My Department does not operate a specific fund for organisations that work to combat social isolation in elderly residents. However, such organisations may apply to be considered for the discretionary National Lottery funding administered by my Department. The 2015 application form is now available on the Department of Health website (www.health.gov.ie).

The Health Service Executive was established under the Health Act 2004 as the single body with statutory responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services in the Republic of Ireland. As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply. If you have not received a reply from the HSE within 15 working days please contact my Private Office and they will follow up the matter with them.