4141. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht the financial supports available to a person under 65 years-of-age who requires a personal monitored alarm but is ineligible for the seniors alert scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61447/26]

My Department is responsible for the Seniors Alert Scheme which encourages community support for vulnerable older people in our communities through the provision of personal monitored alarms to enable them to live securely in their homes with confidence, independence and peace of mind. Funding is available under the scheme towards the purchase by a registered community-based organisation of a personal alarm or pendant and one year of monitoring.

The scheme has an allocation of €3.2million in 2026, with additional support from the 2026 Dormant Accounts Fund. As it is a demand led scheme, it is kept under continuous review to ensure funding can be made available to meet the requirements of all qualifying applicants.

The Scheme has been broadened over recent iterations to make it as accessible as possible, including a revision of the living at home requirements. However, while the scheme is under regular review, there are no plans at present to extend it to people under 65. I would advise that, for those under 65, the HSE is best placed to advise and assist on matters of disability and/or medical issues, including telehealth solutions.