Killeen Welcomes Funding Boost For Older People In West And South East Clare

The community-based groups were this week awarded the funding by the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, under the scheme of Community Supports for Older People. Both groups also received funding under the scheme in 2007.

"I am very aware of the hardships that older people can face on a daily basis. Therefore, I welcome any initiatives that seek to improve confidence, security and comfort levels among older people in our society allowing them to continue to live independently", explained Minister Killeen.

The Junior Agriculture Minister added, "The security devices that older people may now benefit from under this scheme include smoke alarms, the once off cost of installing socially monitored alarm systems, security lighting, and window locks, door locks and door chains designed to strengthen points of entry to dwellings."

"Numerous other local groups have benefited from funding under the under the scheme of Community Supports for Older People, including Ballynacally Community Alert, Meelick Parteen Coonagh Senior Citizens, Kilmaley District Day Care Centre and Shannonside Carers Group", concluded Minister Killeen.

The scheme for Community Supports of Older People is administered by local community and voluntary groups and funded by the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs. Applications can be made throughout the year, thereby allowing applicants to benefit from the wide range of security aids available as the need arises.

-ENDS-

Notes to Editor:
- Tony Killeen T.D., Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (with special responsibility for Fisheries and Forestry), is available for interview and further comment on 0035387-2525304. Alternatively please contact Mark Dunphy of Dunphy Public Relations on 00353868534900 or media@dunphypr.com
- High-resolution images of Minister Killeen are available on request

Mark Dunphy
Dunphy Public Relations
www.dunphypr.com
media@dunphypr.com
00353-868534900