November 28, 2007
Nine organisations united yesterday to press on politicians not to pass the
proposed Fair Deal scheme until it is opened to widespread discussion.
Headed by Age Action Ireland, the groups raised concerns that the legislation
could be rushed through and on the statute books by January -- not allowing
adequate time for consultation or consideration.
They scheme would result in new nursing home residents paying 80pc of their
disposable income towards the cost of their bed during their life, and up to
15pc off the value of an estate after their death, replacing the current public
bed and subvention system.
Robin Webster, of Age Action Ireland, said there are concerns that the scheme is
putting funding before quality.
He called for the legislation to be postponed so it could be publicly debated.
When announced in December 2006, Fair Deal on Nursing Home Care listed three
primary elements: charges, negotiations on the costs of beds, and only quality
approved homes could participate in the scheme.
Health Minister Mary Harney said the legislation would operate from the start of
January, 2008. However, the groups now argue that the only matter being perused
is one of cost.
Dr Dairmuid O'Shea, of the Irish Society of Physicians in Geriatric Medicine,
said elderly people are happy to contribute to their care, but the costs
proposed are too high.
There are 460,000 elderly people living in Ireland, but just 5pc of the
population will need nursing home care with an average stay of 30 months.
Brian Judd, of Active Retirement Ireland, said he was appalled the legislation
was not yet published but could be implemented in the new year.
The Department of Health and Children said the minister proposes to publish the
Bill as soon as possible.
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