107 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding a project (details supplied) in County Tipperary whose approved RAPID funding for 2008 for community projects in respect of older people has been frozen and which has expended money and agreed a contract with a service provider which is legally binding; if she will clarify how this can be taken into account; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13730/09]

117 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding a project (details supplied) in County Tipperary which has had its health leverage funding, approved for 2008, frozen and which has expended money and agreed a contract with a service provider which is legally binding; if she will clarify how this can be taken into account. [13731/09]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 107 and 117 together.

The position in relation to RAPID projects, including the Saol Nua Project in Tipperary Town, was outlined in an Adjournment Debate raised by the Deputy on 25 March last. The Health Service Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular issue of contractual commitments for this project. My Department has therefore requested the Executive to further investigate the matter and to furnish an updated reply direct to the Deputy.