Marian Harkin (Sligo-Leitrim, Independent)
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142. To ask the Minister for Health the timeframe for the examination of the boarding out scheme in the context of the overall reform of older persons services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30451/21]

Mary Butler (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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The last year has been a very challenging year for the health system in responding to the current pandemic. This has highlighted the continuing importance of the need to support people, including our older people, to access the right care, in the right place, at the right time. The Boarding Out Scheme facilitates older people to remain in their communities where they may otherwise be accommodated in residential care. It can also help to reduce social isolation.

While the use of the Boarding Out Scheme by the HSE has traditionally been smallthere is value in exploring it further. I have requested that officials in the Department consider this model of care and the Regulations in the context of our overall commitment to enhancing opportunities for older people to stay in their homes and communities for longer. I expect preliminary work to begin later this year.