Statement from Minister Éamon Ó Cuív TD about the Scheme of Community Support for Older People
Written by Eamon Ó Cuív Monday, 23 November 2009
Minister Éamon Ó Cuív TD has confirmed that the Scheme for Community Support for Older People is open for applications despite recent reports in the Connacht Tribune.
“As Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, I fully appreciate the importance of this scheme and the need for people to feel secure in their homes,” he said. “Earlier this year, the scheme was suspended while a review was taking place. The scheme has been reopened and I am delighted that my colleague John Curran TD, Minister of State at my Department, was recently able to announce grants for the Galway region.
“A large number of applications are on hand and these are now being dealt with as expeditiously as possible.
“Despite opposition claims to the contrary, there was a serious need to review the scheme and this review is now complete. The new, revised scheme will be launched early in the new year, which will ensure much better value from the scheme, as well as ensuring that those who need security devices or personal alarms under the scheme will receive them.
“Since its inception, this scheme has always depended on community goodwill and I would like to commend all the people who are involved in this particular scheme on a voluntary basis.”
