Written answers

Thursday, 23 June 2022

Photo of Paul KehoePaul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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403. To ask the Minister for Health the procedure that should be followed and the potential repercussions regarding the eligibility of a person (details supplied) for the fair deal scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33325/22]

Photo of Mary ButlerMary Butler (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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The Nursing Homes Support Scheme (NHSS), commonly referred to as 'Fair Deal', is a system of financial support for people who require long-term residential care. The primary legislation underpinning the NHSS is the Nursing Homes Support Scheme Act 2009. Participants in the NHSS contribute to the cost of their care according to their means while the State pays the balance of the cost. The Scheme aims to ensure that long-term nursing home care is accessible and affordable for everyone, and that people are cared for in the most appropriate settings.

Under the rules of the scheme, a person is assessed on the basis of their income and assets. Up to 80% of a person's income and 7.5% of the value of their assets per year must be paid towards their cost of care. Legislative amendments are currently being brought forward to apply a lower rate of assessment, at 40%, to rental income from a person's principal residence. This measure will reduce a disincentive against renting out a home that would otherwise remain vacant.

If an individual wishes to make their home available, including refugees, and derives no income from the arrangement, then this will have no impact on their financial assessment.

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