Tom Neville (Limerick County, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

518. To ask the Minister for Rural and Community Development if the introduction of a subsidy for burglar alarms for senior citizens in conjunction with the existing senior alert scheme will be considered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8357/18]

Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

My Department is responsible for the Seniors Alert Scheme which encourages community support for vulnerable older people in our communities through the provision of personal monitored alarms to enable them to live securely in their homes with confidence, independence and peace of mind. Funding is available under the scheme towards the purchase by a registered community-based organisation of a personal alarm or pendant. 

Following a review,  a new version of the scheme came into effect on 1 November 2017. A number of changes were introduced under the new scheme including the provision of free monitoring for the first year and a revision of the living alone requirements.  I am pleased to advise the Deputy that the revised scheme has been a resounding success with unprecedented levels of demand for the new package.  There are no plans to introduce further amendments to the scheme at this point in time.  

The issue of the introduction of a subsidy for the installation of house alarms is a matter for my colleague, the Minister for Justice and Equality under his remit of community crime prevention.