138 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on whether enhanced nursing home subvention applications are being held up in the southern area due to the fact that her Department have failed to issue the new guidelines; and when the problem will be resolved. [3206/07]

In December, 2006 my Department formally advised the Health Service Executive of the signing of the Nursing Homes (Subvention) (Amendment) Regulations 2006 (SI No. 642 of 2006). These Regulations increase the basic rate of subvention to a maximum of €300 per week. Additional funding has been provided for enhanced subvention payments. My Department asked the Executive to circulate guidelines, within the relevant areas, in relation to the payment of basic and enhanced subventions. I understand these issued to all areas on 29 January, 2007. The increase in the basic rate of subvention will apply with effect from 1 January, 2007.