Welcome for cap on Fair Deal

ICSA general secretary Eddie Punch has welcomed Minister of State for Mental Health and Older People Jim Daly’s decision to put a three-year cap on Fair Deal scheme contributions, based on the value of the farming or business enterprise.

He said: “ICSA has always believed a three-year cap was the most equitable solution for farming families and small businesses. This will bring the treatment of family farms in line with the treatment of family homes.

“So, no matter how many years nursing home care is required, the final bill will be limited to the first three years of care being levied against the asset or in practice, a maximum of 7.5% per year capped at 22.5%.”