Written answers

Tuesday, 31 March 2015

Department of Environment, Community and Local Government

Seniors Alert Scheme

Photo of Brendan SmithBrendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

665. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government if he is aware of the concern of many community groups in relation to the proposed changes to the senior alert scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13244/15]

Photo of Ann PhelanAnn Phelan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

My Department manages the Seniors Alert Scheme which encourages community support for vulnerable older people in our communities by providing grant assistance towards the purchase and installation of personal monitored alarms to enable older persons, of limited means, to continue to live securely in their homes with confidence, independence and peace of mind. The scheme is administered by local community and voluntary groups with the support of my Department.

My Department undertook to consider new approaches to the Seniors Alert Scheme in 2014 and arising from this, it was decided that the scheme be managed by Pobal, given that organisation’s significant experience delivering programmes on behalf of Government.

My Department has taken note of the concerns expressed. While Pobal will manage the Scheme on behalf of my Department, it is important to note that my Department will retain responsibility for the strategic policy direction of the Scheme. It will also have an oversight role in relation to Pobal’s delivery of the Scheme, and will ensure that the valuable community support for elderly persons provided by the many hundreds of community and voluntary groups across the country will be maintained.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.