There has been a significant rise in the number of older people with housing difficulties, according to two charities: Alone, which represents older people, and Threshold, which advocates for those with housing difficulties. The housing adaptation grant will help older people to stay at home longer. Under the scheme, grants of up to €30,000 are available to eligible people to undertake works in their home to upgrade the conditions and remain living there. Some 60% of people use the grants for bathroom adaptations, as this is where most falls happen. It is beyond belief that, at times, people must wait for more than two years for the work to be done.

I have people coming to my constituency tomorrow who have cancer. Their house is cold and damp and they are looking for new doors and windows. People come to see me who have disabilities or who are in wheelchairs. They are looking for simple things like bathrooms. Is the problem money or staff? Will the Tánaiste please consult the relevant Minister to help to speed up the housing adaptation grants? Older people want to stay in their own homes.

I thank Deputy Fitzpatrick for raising this issue, which is a serious one. I have always believed in the efficacy of the housing adaptation grant. It has been very effective historically in enabling people to get vital adaptations to their homes, especially as they become more frail in their more senior years, and also in respect of people with disabilities. The grant threshold is under review. I will talk to the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage with a view to getting the threshold increased.