Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 27 February 2019
205. Deputy Mary Butler asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the plans he has put in place in the event of a hard Brexit in relation to the senior alert scheme and the provision of panic buttons to ensure that there will be an adequate supply of this equipment for the elderly and vulnerable; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9881/19]
View answerMy Department is responsible for the Seniors Alert Scheme which encourages community support for vulnerable older people in our communities through the provision of personal monitored alarms to enable them to live securely in their homes with confidence, independence and peace of mind. Funding is available under the scheme towards the purchase by a registered community based-organisation of a personal alarm or pendant. Pobal administers the scheme on my Department’s behalf.
In relation to the potential impact of Brexit, Pobal has sought assurances from all equipment suppliers in respect of their Brexit readiness to ensure they are doing as much as possible to maintain the supply of equipment. My Department and Pobal are satisfied that suppliers are taking necessary steps to mitigate supply risks.
