Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 September 2025
1000. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht when the senior alert scheme will be put out to tender again; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51651/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy 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 for the purchase by a registered community based-organisation of a personal alarm or pendant. The scheme is administered on behalf of my Department by Pobal.
The scheme is currently under review, with the current contracts for supply and monitoring of alarms in place until August 2026. As part of the current review, alternative technologies are being considered. The new iteration of the scheme will take account of technology advancements to ensure vulnerable people are not left isolated during extreme weather events where power/communications are down. Departmental officials continue to engage with telecoms operators, technology consultants, representative bodies, Pobal and all other relevant stakeholders in this regard.
I expect the tender process for the next iteration of the scheme to be commenced in the near future, once the outcome of the review and consultation process is known, with a new iteration of the scheme to be launched in early 2026.
