Question from Deputy Pádraig OSullivan - PQ 40563-26

To ask the Minister for Health the current waiting times for processing fair deal scheme applications through the HSE South West Nursing Homes Support Office, given that approximately 558 applications were processed in Cork and Kerry to date this year; if she will confirm whether her Department is satisfied that the current common summation process does not cause undue delays for families seeking long-term nursing home care; and if she will make a statement on the matter.