Mary Butler (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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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 small the potential of the scheme merits consideration and further exploration for use in the community setting especially within rural communities.

As I have previously advised the Deputy, I have requested that officials in the Department consider this model of care in the context of our overall commitment to enhancing opportunities for older people to stay in their homes and communities for longer.

Due to competing pressures, there has been a delay in commencing this piece of work. However consideration has been given to the next steps for reviewing this Scheme with the current Regulations and the financial arrangements in place and with the current providers of this service to be examined as part of this process.