Proposed changes to the Fair Deal Scheme which would assist self-employed people and farm families to access the scheme are very welcome and long overdue.
Minister Jim Daly has confirmed that he proposes to cap the 7.5% contribution on farm and business assets to three years. There is currently no cap and the 7.5% is charged every year as long as the care is provided. The proposal by the Minister is fulfilling a commitment in the Programme for Government to address this issue.
The proposal is subject to approval by the Attorney General. The HSE has made provision for the estimated cost in the Budget 2018 submission. This is a major assistance to farm families and self-employed people when a family member is in the care of a nursing home.