Funds for elderly - Flexible care must not be inferior care

It is, of course, preferable to have elderly people looked after in the familiar surroundings and comfort of their own home, where possible, and for this reason the supports announced yesterday by Tánaiste Mary Harney are to be welcomed.

What Ms Harney announced were details of a €150 million package to provide services for the elderly, funding for which was announced in Wednesday’s Budget.

This package, however, is not a panacea that will deliver comprehensive care of the elderly.