142 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Health and Children if the nursing home support scheme makes provision for married couples to be accommodated in the same nursing home when both persons are assessed as being in need of long-term care; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [47067/10]

A fundamental principle enshrined in the Nursing Homes Support Scheme Act 2009 is that of patient choice. Once a person receives approval for financial support, they can choose to enter any nursing home that is participating in the scheme in any part of the country, subject to the nursing home having an available bed and being able to cater for the person’s particular needs. This applies to public, private and voluntary nursing homes alike.

Therefore, a married couple can be accommodated in the same nursing home provided that it can cater for their individual needs and has available beds.