Mr. Tony Killeen, Minister of State has expressed confidence that a Government allocation of over EUR4,600 to Meelick Parteen Coonagh Senior Citizens will help improve the security and social support of older individuals in the South East Clare area.
The community-based group was this week awarded the funding by the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, under the scheme of Community Supports for Older People. “I am very aware of the hardships that older people can face on a daily basis. Therefore, I welcome any initiatives that improve confidence, security and comfort levels among older people in our society allowing them to continue to live independently”, explained Minister Killeen.
The Clare T.D. added, “The security devices that older people may now benefit from under this scheme include smoke alarms, the once off cost of installing socially monitored alarm systems, security lighting, and window locks, door locks and door chains designed to strengthen points of entry to dwellings.” “Numerous local groups have benefited in recent months from funding under the under the scheme of Community Supports for Older People, including Ballynacally Community Alert, Kilmaley District Day Care Centre, Shannonside Carers Group, Caring for Carers and Cratloe Community Council”, concluded Minister Killeen.
The scheme for Community Supports of Older People is administered by local community and voluntary groups and funded by the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs.
