Seán Fleming (Laois, Fianna Fail)
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258. To ask the Minister for Rural and Community Development the position regarding the changing of contracts for the installation of personal monitored alarms; the rationale behind expected changes regarding same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41068/17]

Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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The Seniors Alert Scheme is administered by local community and voluntary groups with the support of my Department and Pobal. The scheme 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. Funding is available under the scheme towards the purchase of equipment i.e. personal alarm and/or pendant by a registered organisation.

The Seniors Alert Scheme is administered by local community and voluntary groups with the support of my Department and Pobal. The scheme 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. Funding is available under the scheme towards the purchase of equipment i.e. personal alarm and/or pendant by a registered organisation.

In 2016, with my Department’s agreement, Pobal commissioned a general review of the scheme to identify potential improvements, including technological advances. Following the review, a new scheme was designed and tenders were invited from potential suppliers. I understand this process has almost concluded and I intend to be in a position to announce a new and improved iteration of the scheme shortly.