In considering the future registration of nursing homes and the regulations governing their operation, does the Minister intend to consider changing the system whereby some of the homes are paid a subsidy by health boards and others since a certain year are not allowed to qualify for the subsidy? This, as the Minister would agree, results in hardship for patients who cannot get into those that are subsidised and have to go into those that are not subsidised, therefore putting themselves and their families under large financial strain.

I will be considering all aspects of care of the elderly in nursing homes, including the points raised by Deputy Molloy. I look forward to receiving the report on the care of the elderly in the very near future and I will be looking at what comments the working party make in regard to the points raised.