Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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106. To ask the Minister for Health if matters (details supplied) in relation to homecare will be addressed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41320/19]

Jim Daly (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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The Sláintecare Implementation Strategy commits to the introduction of a statutory homecare scheme in 2021. As part of this, work is on-going to determine the optimal approach to the development of the scheme within the broader context of the Sláintecare reforms and in 2019 work is focusing on the design of the scheme, the options for regulation, and a review of existing services.

As part of this, in recent months, the Department of Health has commissioned a review of the management, operation and funding of existing home-support service-provision. This will significantly enhance the evidence-base for the development of the statutory scheme and ensure that it builds on emerging good practice within Ireland.

I am aware of the proposals referred to by the Deputy and will take these into consideration as I continue to develop the scheme. I expect to be in a position to provide further details around the general terms of the proposed scheme in January 2020.