316 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a person (details supplied) in County Mayo was refused the special housing aid for the elderly scheme; and if their application can be reassessed following an inspection of their circumstances. [11301/02]

As the Deputy is aware, the special housing aid scheme for the elderly is operated by the health boards and the Eastern Regional Health Authority on behalf of the Department of the Environment and Local Government. My Department has asked the Chief Executive Officer of the Western Health Board to investigate the matter raised and reply direct to the Deputy, as a matter of urgency.